Tenofovir-based first-line regimen in newly diagnosed HIV-patients: An experience from a Tertiary Care Hospital in India.

Introduction: India has a huge burden of HIV/AIDS infection. Tenofovir-based first-line therapy is the preferred treatment for newly diagnosed cases of HIV infection.

Materials And Methods: The present prospective study was done among newly diagnosed cases of HIV infection. The patients were followed up for 6 months from the day of enrollment. Sociodemographic parameters, CD4 counts, and adverse drug reactions (ADRs) were analyzed at baseline and after 6 months. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression was performed with the occurrence of ADRs as outcome variable.

Results: In this study, 67 patients were enrolled with a mean age of 32.75 (±14.39) years. Mean CD4 count at the start of treatment was 241.5/mm. The mean difference in CD4 count was 383.05/mm (standard deviation = 274.9). Dizziness, tingling, numbness of extremities, and muscle cramps were the most common adverse effects. On multivariate logistic regression, the occurrence of ADRs was seen to be significantly higher only in illiterate patients.

Conclusion: The present study highlights the importance of long-term follow-up of the patients on antiretroviral therapy. Adequate monitoring of the treatment parameters is of utmost importance.