Analysis of self-reported adverse reactions to efavirenz and drug interactions in a population with HIV in Mexico.

OBJECTIVE

To analyse the most frequent self-reported adverse reactions (ARs), the durability and the causes of antiretrovirals (ARVs) regimens change, concomitant treatments and drug interactions related to the use of ARVs in a group of people living with HIV in Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Cross-sectional study conducted in a clinic specialising in HIV 'CAPASITS-Cuernavaca' in Mexico from February to June 2015. People who wanted to participate were given a questionnaire on demographic characteristics, adherence, concomitant treatments and ARs. To understand the clinical variables, the clinical records were reviewed. Quantitative variables were compared using Student's t-test for normal data and the Mann-Whitney U test for non-normal data. For comparisons between categorical variables, the χ test was used. All tests used a significance level of 0.05.

RESULTS

A total of 96 people participated, and 218 ARs (mean= 2.3±1.9) were found. The most frequently encountered ARs were dizziness (53.1%), insomnia (21.9%) and lucid dreams (17.7%). Twenty-three people (24%) were polymedicated, and 18 potential interactions were detected in 12 people.

CONCLUSIONS

The results suggest that a thorough analysis of the possible drug interactions should be performed for polymedicated people on ARV treatment and that a protocol should be designed for the monitoring and management of AR to ensure a good adherence to ARV treatment.