Antiretroviral-associated Hepatotoxicity.

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Hepatology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) has transformed HIV/AIDS management, reducing morbidity and mortality.
• Longer treatment durations and complex regimens increase the risk of drug interactions and toxicities.
• Hepatotoxicity is an emerging concern in antiretroviral therapy (ART).

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the potential for antiretroviral-induced hepatotoxicity.
• To identify patient-specific risk factors and drug-drug interactions associated with liver injury.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of antiretroviral agents and their association with hepatotoxicity.
• Analysis of patient factors contributing to increased liver enzyme abnormalities.
• Examination of drug-drug interaction profiles potentiating hepatotoxicity.

Main Results:

• All antiretroviral classes can cause liver enzyme abnormalities.
• Certain antiretrovirals are more frequently linked to drug-induced liver injury.
• Patient factors like viral hepatitis coinfection, elevated baseline liver function tests, female gender, and substance abuse increase risk.
• Drug-drug interactions can exacerbate antiretroviral-associated hepatotoxicity.

Conclusions:

• Hepatotoxicity is a significant complication of modern antiretroviral therapy.
• Identifying at-risk patients and managing drug interactions are crucial for preventing liver injury.
• Close monitoring of liver function is essential for patients on long-term antiretroviral treatment.