Adverse drug reactions of antiretroviral treatment (art) in people living with hiv/aids (plhi)

Background: Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) is effective but at the same time is associated with several adverse drug reactions affecting various organ systems of the body posing a constant challenge, authors conducted a study on adverse drug reactions of ART at tertiary care centre Methods: The criteria for the diagnosis of ADR was defined as per WHO guidelines. All cases were periodically subjected to clinical and laboratory monitoring for drug toxicity on each follow up during on one year period. CD4 count was done as and when required. Observations: Anemia was observed as commonest side effect 19.13% (31/162), followed by rashes 15.44% (25/162), hepatitis 3.68% (5/162), peripheral neuropathy 11.11% (18/16), dyslipidemia 9.87% (16/162), gastrointestinal manifestations 4.32%(7/162) and neuropsychiatric manifestations 1.23% (2/162). Conclusion: Though ADR are associated with HAART it has to be stressed that majority of patients are able to tolerate HAART well. The monitoring of treatment and associated toxicity by clinician is recommended in at least three monthly intervals, even in asymptomatic patients, and more often at the initiation of HAART.