Clinical Profile and Adverse Effects of Dolutegravir Treatment in HIV-Positive Patients: A Prospective Observational Study

TL;DR

This study examines how well dolutegravir works in treating HIV and identifies common side effects like headaches and weight gain.

Contribution

The study provides real-world data on dolutegravir's adverse effects and treatment adherence in HIV-positive patients.

Findings

Dolutegravir-based regimens led to successful viral suppression and increased CD4 counts.

Common adverse effects included neuropsychiatric symptoms and unintended weight gain.

Prolonged ART usage was linked to additional comorbidities.

Abstract

Background

The emergence of dolutegravir (DTG) within antiretroviral therapy (ART) has drastically improved the management of HIV/AIDS, marking a shift toward a chronic manageable condition. Nevertheless, concerns persist regarding the real-world tolerability and adverse effects (AEs) of DTG.

Objective

This study aims to explore the clinical characteristics, adverse reactions, and adherence to treatment with DTG among HIV-positive individuals.

Methods

Through a prospective approach, we examined HIV-positive patients undergoing DTG-based ART regimens. Key parameters, including socio-demographic data, treatment adherence, and clusters of differentiation 4 (CD4) count, were evaluated. Enrolled patients were followed up for six months for the development of comorbidities and AEs.

Results

Initial observations indicate successful viral suppression and enhanced CD4 counts with DTG-based regimens, t(318)=2.0664, p=0.0392. However, a subset of participants experienced AEs such as neuropsychiatric symptoms (headaches and mood fluctuations), unintended weight gain, and other comorbidities linked to prolonged ART usage.

Conclusion

While DTG-based therapies offer substantial advantages in HIV/AIDS management, such as rapid viral suppression and reduced toxicity, ongoing vigilance for adverse effects, particularly neuropsychiatric symptoms and metabolic disturbances, is imperative for optimizing patient care. Further research is necessary to fully elucidate the safety profile of DTG in real-world scenarios and mitigate potential adverse reactions.

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