Publications by authors named "Mark Ssenyonga"
Effect of dolutegravir on folate, vitamin B12 and mean corpuscular volume levels among children and adolescents with HIV: a sub-study of the ODYSSEY randomized controlled trial.
Linda Namutebi Barlow-Mosha Grace Miriam Ahimbisibwe Elizabeth Chappell Pauline Mary Amuge Annet Nanduudu Mark Ssenyonga
J Int AIDS Soc
September 2023
Article Synopsis
- Dolutegravir-based antiretroviral therapy (ART) is recommended for treating children and adolescents with HIV, but earlier studies raised concerns about its potential link to neural tube defects.
- A sub-study was conducted within the ODYSSEY trial in Uganda to assess the impact of dolutegravir on folate and vitamin B12 levels, essential for neural tube development, compared to standard care treatments.
- Results indicated that children on dolutegravir had significantly higher plasma and RBC folate levels at both week 4 and week ≥96 compared to those on standard treatment, suggesting a positive effect of dolutegravir on folate status.
Background: The effectiveness of traditional adherence measurements used in adolescent populations is difficult to assess. Antiretroviral (ARV) adherence research among adolescents living with HIV in resource-constrained countries is particularly challenging and little evidence is available.
Objectives: The primary objective of this study was to determine the feasibility of a large-scale, long-term study using electronic adherence monitoring in Uganda.