Switching to Bictegravir/Emtricitabine/Tenofovir Alafenamide Fumarate Regimen and Its Effect on Liver Steatosis Assessed by Fibroscan.

BACKGROUND

Antiretroviral therapy has transformed HIV infection from a fatal disease to a chronic and manageable condition, but increasing health issues beyond acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, such as metabolic, liver, and cardiovascular diseases, have been observed. Furthermore, the increasing prevalence of HIV strains resistant to older antiretroviral regimens has necessitated a re-evaluation of treatment strategies.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective, observational study to evaluate the long-term outcomes of an antiretroviral switch from a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor-based to bictegravir-based regimen; this study aimed to assess the impact of this antiretroviral switch on treatment adherence, the safety profile, and virologic outcomes. The secondary objectives were to analyze the changes in lipid, kidney function, liver function, and anthropometric parameters after switching.

RESULTS

A total of 25 patients were included in this analysis; virologic suppression was maintained over time, with 100% of patients demonstrating undetectable viral loads at 6, 12, 24, and 36 months. In parallel, a significant increase in CD4+ cell count was observed after switching. No significant differences were observed compared to the previous therapy regarding anthropometric parameters or laboratory parameters. However, a significant reduction in liver steatosis, as assessed by Fibroscan, was observed.

CONCLUSIONS

bictegravir-based regimens are a valid therapeutic option for people living with HIV, particularly for those with metabolic comorbidities.