Psychopharmacology in HIV-positive patients: research perspectives

Psychotropic medications play an important role in the treatment of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive subjects suffering from neuropsychiatric disorders or other acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)-related symptomatology. The quality of life of these patients can be significantly improved by the appropriate use of these agents. Various aspects of psychopharmacology that are relevant to HIV-positive patients include assessment of efficacy, tolerability, drug-drug interactions, and effects on cognition. These topics need further investigation and require focused research efforts. This report highlights current research needs and presents specific recommendations that emerged at a recent meeting on psychopharmacology for HIV-positive patients organized by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH).