Rilpivirine versus efavirenz with tenofovir and emtricitabine in treatment-naive adults infected with HIV-1 (ECHO): a phase 3 randomised double-blind active-controlled trial

Deep sequencing analysis of HIV-1 reverse transcriptase at baseline and time of failure in patients receiving rilpivirine in the phase III studies ECHO and THRIVE

Minority variants (1.0-25.0%) were evaluated by deep sequencing (DS) at baseline and virological failure (VF) in a selection of antiretroviral treatment-naïve, HIV-1-infected patients from the rilpivirine ECHO/THRIVE phase III studies. Linkage between frequently emerging resistance-associated mutations (RAMs) was determined. DS (llIumina®) and population sequencing (PS) results were available at baseline for 47 VFs and time of failure for 48 VFs; and at baseline for 49 responders matched for baseline characteristics. Minority mutations were accurately detected at frequencies down to 1.2% of the HIV-1 quasispecies. No baseline minority rilpivirine RAMs were detected in VFs; one responder carried 1.9% F227C. Baseline minority mutations associated with resistance to other non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs) were detected in 8/47 VFs (17.0%) and 7/49 responders (14.3%). Baseline minority nucleoside/nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) RAMs M184V and L210W were each detected in one VF (none in responders). At failure, two patients without NNRTI RAMs by PS carried minority rilpivirine RAMs K101E and/or E138K; and five additional patients carried other minority NNRTI RAMs V90I, V106I, V179I, V189I, and Y188H. Overall at failure, minority NNRTI RAMs and NRTI RAMs were found in 29/48 (60.4%) and 16/48 VFs (33.3%), respectively. Linkage analysis showed that E138K and K101E were usually not observed on the same viral genome. In conclusion, baseline minority rilpivirine RAMs and other NNRTI/NRTI RAMs were uncommon in the rilpivirine arm of the ECHO and THRIVE studies. DS at failure showed emerging NNRTI resistant minority variants in seven rilpivirine VFs who had no detectable NNRTI RAMs by PS.

Comparative Safety and Neuropsychiatric Adverse Events Associated With Efavirenz Use in First-Line Antiretroviral Therapy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Trials

INTRODUCTION

Efavirenz (EFV) is widely used for the treatment of antiretroviral-naive HIV-positive individuals, but there are concerns about the risk of adverse neuropsychiatric events. We systematically reviewed the safety of EFV in first-line therapy.

METHODS

Four databases were searched until October 2014 for randomized trials comparing EFV against non-EFV-based regimens for the treatment of antiretroviral-naive HIV-positive adults and children. The primary outcome was drug discontinuation as a result of any adverse event. Relative risks and proportions were pooled using random-effects meta-analysis.

RESULTS

Forty-two trials were included for review. A lower relative and absolute risk of discontinuations due to adverse drug reactions was seen with EFV compared to nevirapine. The relative and absolute risk of discontinuation was greater for EFV compared with low-dose EFV, rilpivirine, tenofovir, atazanavir, and maraviroc. The relative risk of discontinuation was greater for EFV compared with dolutegravir and raltegravir, but absolute risks were not significantly different. There was no difference in the risk of any severe clinical adverse events for any comparison. With the exception of dizziness, fewer than 10% of patients exposed to EFV experienced any other specific type of neuropsychiatric event. No suicides were reported.

CONCLUSIONS

This review found that over 90% of patients remained on an EFV-based first-line regimen after an average follow-up time of 78 weeks. The relative risk of discontinuations due to adverse events was higher for EFV compared with most other first-line options, but absolute differences were less than 5% for all comparisons.

Initiation of antiretroviral therapy at high CD4+ cell counts is associated with positive treatment outcomes

OBJECTIVE

There is limited research investigating the possible mechanisms of how starting combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) at a higher CD4 cell count decreases mortality. This study investigated the association between initiating cART with short-term and long-term achievement of viral suppression; emergence of any drug resistance and of an AIDS-defining illness (ADI); long-term treatment adherence; and all-cause mortality.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included 4120 naive patients who initiated cART between 2000 and 2012. Patients were followed until 2013, death or until the last contact date (varied by outcome). The main exposure was the interaction between period of cART initiation (2000-2006 and 2007-2012) and CD4 cell count at cART initiation (<500 versus ≥500 cells/μl). We considered both baseline and longitudinal covariates. We fitted different multivariable models using cross-sectional and longitudinal statistical methods, depending on the outcome.

RESULTS

Patients who initiated cART with a CD4 cell count at least 500 cells/μl in 2007-2012 had an increased likelihood of achieving viral suppression at 9 months and of maintaining an adherence level of at least 95% over time, and the lowest probability of developing any resistance and an ADI during follow-up. These patients were not the ones with the highest likelihood of maintaining viral suppression over time, most likely due to viral load blips experienced during the follow-up.

CONCLUSION

The outcomes in this study likely play an important role in explaining the positive impact of early cART initiation on mortality. These results should alleviate some of the concerns clinicians may have when initiating cART in patients with high CD4s as recommended by current treatment guidelines.

Costs and cost-effectiveness analysis of 2015 GESIDA/Spanish AIDS National Plan recommended guidelines for initial antiretroviral therapy in HIV-infected adults

INTRODUCTION

GESIDA and the AIDS National Plan panel of experts suggest a preferred (PR), alternative (AR) and other regimens (OR) for antiretroviral treatment (ART) as initial therapy in HIV-infected patients for 2015. The objective of this study is to evaluate the costs and the effectiveness of initiating treatment with these regimens.

METHODS

Economic assessment of costs and effectiveness (cost/effectiveness) based on decision tree analyses. Effectiveness was defined as the probability of reporting a viral load <50 copies/mL at week 48, in an intention-to-treat analysis. Cost of initiating treatment with an ART regimen was defined as the costs of ART and its consequences (adverse effects, changes of ART regimen, and drug resistance studies) during the first 48 weeks. The payer perspective (National Health System) was applied, only taking into account differential direct costs: ART (official prices), management of adverse effects, studies of resistance, and HLA B*5701 testing. The setting is Spain and the costs correspond to those of 2015. A deterministic sensitivity analysis was conducted, building three scenarios for each regimen: base case, most favourable and least favourable.

RESULTS

In the base case scenario, the cost of initiating treatment ranges from 4663 Euros for 3TC+LPV/r (OR) to 10,902 Euros for TDF/FTC+RAL (PR). The effectiveness varies from 0.66 for ABC/3TC+ATV/r (AR) and ABC/3TC+LPV/r (OR), to 0.89 for TDF/FTC+DTG (PR) and TDF/FTC/EVG/COBI (AR). The efficiency, in terms of cost/effectiveness, ranges from 5280 to 12,836 Euros per responder at 48 weeks, for 3TC+LPV/r (OR) and RAL+DRV/r (OR), respectively.

CONCLUSION

The most efficient regimen was 3TC+LPV/r (OR). Among the PR and AR, the most efficient regimen was TDF/FTC/RPV (AR). Among the PR regimes, the most efficient was ABC/3TC+DTG.

Emtricitabine/rilpivirine/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate single-tablet regimen: a review of its use in HIV infection

The nucleos(t)ide reverse transcriptase inhibitors, emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (tenofovir DF), and the non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor, rilpivirine, are now available as a fixed-dose single-tablet regimen (emtricitabine/rilpivirine/tenofovir DF; Complera(®), Eviplera(®)) for the treatment of adults infected with HIV-1. In treatment-naïve adults, once-daily emtricitabine/rilpivirine/tenofovir DF was noninferior to once-daily emtricitabine/efavirenz/tenofovir DF with regard to establishing virological suppression over 96 weeks of therapy in a randomized, open-label, phase IIIb study (STaR). These data confirmed the findings of a pooled subset analysis of two earlier 96-week, double-blind, phase III trials (ECHO and THRIVE) in which treatment-naïve adults received either rilpivirine or efavirenz in combination with emtricitabine/tenofovir DF. However, the virological benefit of emtricitabine/rilpivirine/tenofovir DF in this setting appeared limited in patients with low CD4+ cell counts or high viral loads at baseline. In 48-week phase IIIb (SPIRIT) and IIb (Study 111) trials in treatment-experienced patients already virologically suppressed with a single- or multiple-tablet antiretroviral regimen and without prior virological failure, switching to once-daily emtricitabine/rilpivirine/tenofovir DF maintained virological suppression and was noninferior to remaining on a more complex multiple-tablet regimen in this regard. Emtricitabine/rilpivirine/tenofovir DF is generally well tolerated and appears to have a more favourable tolerability profile than emtricitabine/efavirenz/tenofovir DF. Thus, emtricitabine/rilpivirine/tenofovir DF is a welcome addition to the other single-tablet regimens currently available for the treatment of HIV-1 infection, providing a convenient and effective option for some adults who are treatment-naïve, as well as those who are already virologically suppressed on their current treatment regimen and wish to switch because of intolerance or to simplify their regimen.

Antiretroviral activity and safety of once-daily etravirine in treatment-naive HIV-infected adults: 48-week results

BACKGROUND

Etravirine (ETR), a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor approved for 200 mg twice-daily dosing in conjunction with other antiretrovirals (ARVs), has pharmacokinetic properties which support once-daily dosing.

METHODS

In this single-arm, open-label study, 79 treatment-naive HIV-infected adults were assigned to receive ETR 400 mg plus tenofovir disoproxil fumarate/emtricitabine (TDF/FTC) 300/200 mg once daily to assess antiviral activity, safety and tolerability. ARV activity at 48 weeks was determined by proportion of subjects with HIV-1 RNA<50 copies/ml (intention-to-treat, missing = failure).

RESULTS

Of 79 eligible subjects, 90% were men, 62% African-American and 29% Caucasian. At baseline, median (Q1, Q3) age was 29 years (23, 44) and HIV-1 RNA 4.52 log10 copies/ml (4.07, 5.04). A total of 69 (87%) completed a week 48 visit and 61 (77%, 95% CI 66%, 86%) achieved HIV-1 RNA<50 copies/ml at week 48. At time of virological failure, genotypic resistance-associated mutations were detected in three participants, two with E138K (one alone and one with additional mutations). Median (95% CI) CD4(+) cell count increase was 163 (136, 203) cells/µl. Fifteen (19.0%) participants reported a new sign/symptom or lab abnormality ≥ Grade 3 and three participants (3.8%) permanently discontinued ETR due to toxicity. Two participants had psychiatric symptoms of any grade. There were no deaths.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study of ARV-naive HIV-positive adults, once-daily ETR with TDF/FTC had acceptable antiviral activity and was well-tolerated. Once-daily ETR may be a plausible option as part of a combination ARV regimen for treatment-naive individuals. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00959894.

Effects of raltegravir combined with tenofovir/emtricitabine on body shape, bone density, and lipids in African-Americans initiating HIV therapy

BACKGROUND

Raltegravir (RAL) plus tenofovir/emtricitabine (TDF/FTC) is a recommended initial antiretroviral regimen. A substantial proportion of persons diagnosed with HIV infection and starting antiretrovirals in the U.S. are African-American (AA); however, the effects of this regimen on metabolic parameters have largely been studied in white patients.

METHODS

Single-arm, open-label study of untreated AA HIV-infected patients administered RAL with TDF/FTC for 104 weeks. Changes in fasting lipids, insulin resistance, visceral adipose tissue (VAT), abdominal subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT), limb and trunk fat, and bone mineral density (BMD) were assessed at weeks 56 and 104.

RESULTS

Thirty (85% men) participants were included. Median entry characteristics included age of 38 years, CD4 323 cells/mm3, HIV RNA level 29,245 copies/ml, and body mass index 28.1 kg/m2. At 56 and 104 weeks, significant increases in VAT, trunk fat, limb fat, and overall fat were observed. Bone mineral density decreased by 1.5% by week 104.There were no significant changes in non-HDL-cholesterol, fasting triglycerides, or insulin resistance. A median CD4 cell count increase of 318 cells/mm3 (IQR 179, 403; full range 40, 749) (P<0.001) was observed. Assuming missing=failure, 78 and 70% had HIV RNA levels<40 copies/ml at weeks 56 and 104, respectively. There were no treatment-related discontinuations and no new antiretroviral resistance mutations were detected.

CONCLUSIONS

In this cohort of AAs, initiation of RAL with TDF/FTC was associated with significant general increases in fat. Significant changes in lipids or insulin resistance were not observed and there was a small decline in BMD. Therapy was well tolerated and effective. These results are consistent with findings of studies of initial antiretroviral therapy in racially diverse cohorts and inform treatment selection for AA patients starting therapy for HIV infection.

Effectiveness of a Treatment Switch to Nevirapine plus Tenofovir and Emtricitabine (or Lamivudine) in Adults with HIV-1 Suppressed Viremia

BACKGROUND

Switching subjects with persistently undetectable HIV-1 viremia under antiretroviral treatment (ART) to once-daily tenofovir/emtricitabine (or lamivudine) + nevirapine is a cost-effective and well-tolerated strategy. However, the effectiveness of this approach has not been established.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective study evaluating the rates of treatment failure, virological failure (VF), and variables associated, in all subjects initiating this switch combination in our clinic since 2001. Analyses were performed by a modified intention to treat, where switch due to toxicity equalled failure. The main endpoint was plasma HIV-RNA < 50 copies/mL.

RESULTS

341 patients were treated for a median of 176 (57; 308) weeks. At week 48, 306 (89.7%) subjects had HIV-1 RNA <50 copies/mL, 10 (2.9%) experienced VF, and 25 (7.4%) discontinued the treatment due to toxicity. During the whole follow-up 23 (6.7%) individuals (17 on lamivudine, 6 on emtricitabine; p = 0.034) developed VF and treatment modification due to toxicity occurred in 36 (10.7%). Factors independently associated with VF in a multivariate analysis were: intravenous drug use (HR 1.51; 95%CI 1.12, 2.04), time with undetectable viral load before the switch (HR 0.98; 0.97, 0.99), number of prior NRTIs (HR 1.49; 1.15, 1.93) or NNRTIs (HR 3.22; 1.64, 6.25), and previous NVP (HR 1.54; 1.10, 2.17) or efavirenz (HR 5.76; 1.11, 29.87) unscheduled interruptions. VF was associated with emergence of usual nevirapine mutations (Y181C/I/D, K103N and V106A/I), M184V (n = 16; 12 with lamivudine vs. 4 with emtricitabine, p = 0.04), and K65R (n = 7).

CONCLUSIONS

The rates of treatment failure at 48 weeks, or long-term toxicity or VF with this switch regimen are low and no unexpected mutations or patterns of mutations were selected in subjects with treatment failure.

HIV research trials versus standard clinics for antiretroviral-naïve patients: the outcomes differ but do the patients?

Exclusion criteria for HIV treatment-naïve drug trials can be stringent and selection bias exists, making it difficult to extrapolate results into the 'real world' clinical situation. We aim to compare the demographics, virological outcomes and psychosocial complexity in adult HIV-infected treatment-naïve patients from our cohort initiating combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) in research trials versus standard clinics. In our unit from 2006 to 2011, 1202 standard clinic and 69 research trial patients initiated cART; every eighth standard clinics patient was included to create a standard clinics:research trials patient ratio of 2:1. Notes were retrospectively reviewed for patient demographics, attendance rates and virological outcomes. Data from 221 antiretroviral-naïve patients starting cART were analysed: 152 standard clinic patients and 69 from research trials. In the research trials group, there was an overrepresentation of men (p = 0.041), men who have sex with men (p < 0.001), patients of white ethnicity (p = 0.01), employed patients (p = 0.01) and patients using excessive alcohol (p = 0.02). There was equal representation of drug use, depression and referral to psychology, psychiatry and social work in both groups. The research trials group at baseline had significantly higher CD4 counts (p < 0.001), lower viral loads (p = 0.01) and more patients achieved undetectable viral loads at three (p < 0.001), six (p < 0.001) and 24 months (p = 0.033). There is a prevailing common preconception that participants in clinical trials are uncomplicated, unlike their 'real-life' counterparts. We demonstrated important similarities in psychosocial complexity as well as differences in demographics and virological outcomes in trial and non-trial patients. Clinicians need to be aware of these discrepancies to ensure the facilitation of a heterogeneous population participating in research trials.

Is self-reported adherence associated with clinical outcomes in women treated with anticholinergic medication for overactive bladder?

AIM

To determine the association between self-reported adherence to anticholinergic medication and clinical outcomes in women with overactive bladder (OAB).

METHODS

A prospective study of women with OAB treated with fesoterodine for 8 weeks. Adherence to medication was measured using the Medication Adherence Self-report Inventory (MASRI). A self reported adherence rate of ≥80% was considered adherent. The association between self-reported adherence and clinical outcomes (Global Index of Improvement, Global impression of Severity, urinary symptom and quality of life scores) was examined. We hypothesized that adherent women would have greater improvement in urinary symptoms and quality of life than non-adherent women.

RESULTS

Based on the MASRI, 115 (62.5%) women were adherent and 69 (37.5%) were non-adherent to anticholinergic medication at 8weeks. Adherent women were more likely to report overall improvement in their symptoms compared to non-adherent women (84% vs. 24%, P < 0.001). Significantly more non-adherent women described their bladder symptoms as "moderate" or "severe" at 8 weeks compared to adherent women (74% vs. 44%, P = 0.03). At 8 weeks, adherent women reported significantly greater improvement (change) in urinary symptoms from baseline to 8 weeks than non-adherent women (-13.3 ± 25.8 vs. 2.5 ± 14.4, P = 0.04). Similarly, adherent women reported greater improvement in quality of life scores than non-adherent women (- 7.9 ± 24.0 vs. -1.8 ± 11.9, P = 0.003).

CONCLUSION

Self-reported non-adherence, as measured by the MASRI, is associated with clinically meaningful outcomes in women with OAB. This further validates the MASRI as a clinically useful tool for measuring adherence to anticholinergic medications in women with OAB. Neurourol. Urodynam. 35:738-742, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Emtricitabine/rilpivirine/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate for the treatment of HIV-1 infection in adults

This paper reviews the current literature and information on the combination drug Complera(™) (rilpivirine/emtricitabine/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate) that was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in August 2011. PubMed, Cochrane and Embase (2001-2014) were searched for primary and review articles on rilpivirine, emtricitabine, and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, individually or in combination. Data from drug manufacturer and product label was also used. Clinical trial reports were selected, extracted and analyzed to include relevant and recent ones. Selected English-language trials were limited to those with human subjects and included both safety and efficacy outcomes. Results from two phase 3 randomized double blind trials (ECHO and THRIVE) showed that rilpivirine is non-inferior to efavirenz in suppressing viral load below 50 copies/mL in anti-retroviral therapy (ART) naïve human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infected patients. In addition, psychiatric disturbances, rash and increase in lipid levels occurred less frequently with rilpivirine when compared to efavirenz. However, virological failure and drug resistance were higher with rilpivirine in patients with baseline viral load >100,000 copies/mL. Rilpivirine showed cross resistance to efavirenz and etravirine. Efavirenz, on the other hand, did not demonstrate cross resistance to rilpivirine and etravirine, leaving the latter drugs as options for use in case of virological failure with efavirenz. Complera(™) remains an acceptable alternative treatment to Atripla(™) in ART naïve patients who have a pre-ART plasma HIV RNA <100,000 copies/mL and CD4 count >200 cells/mm(3) with non-inferior efficacy and better safety and tolerability.

Safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetics of rilpivirine following administration of a long-acting formulation in healthy volunteers

OBJECTIVES

This phase I healthy volunteer study (NCT01031589) was carried out to investigate the safety/tolerability and pharmacokinetics of a rilpivirine (RPV; TMC278) long-acting (LA) formulation after single and multiple intramuscular (i.m.) injections.

METHODS

In the first part of the study, which had an open-label design, a single RPV LA i.m. injection (300 mg/mL) of 300 (n = 6) or 600 (n = 5) mg was given to the volunteers. In the second part of the study, which had a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled design, three RPV LA i.m. injections (one every 4 weeks) at 1200/600/600 mg (n = 6) or placebo (n = 2) were given. Safety and local tolerability were monitored. RPV plasma concentrations were analysed up to 28 days after injection or until they were < 20 ng/mL.

RESULTS

Grade 1/2 RPV-related adverse events in the 300, 600 and 1200/600/600 mg groups were: rash (zero, one and one subject, respectively, the last of whom discontinued participation in the study); musculoskeletal stiffness (three, zero and zero subjects, respectively); injection site reactions (one, two and two subjects, respectively). After one injection of 300, 600 or 1200 mg RPV LA, the mean (standard deviation) maximum plasma concentration was 39 (25), 48 (13) and 140 (16) ng/mL, and the mean (standard deviation) area under the concentration-time curve (28 days) was 17,090 (8907), 25,240 (8184) and 55,350 (13,550) ng h/mL, respectively. RPV pharmacokinetics were largely comparable after the 1200 mg loading dose and both 600 mg injections of RPV LA. The mean (standard deviation) RPV plasma concentration across the 28-day dosing interval after the last injection in the 1200/600/600 mg group was 79 (19) ng/mL.

CONCLUSIONS

Single and multiple i.m. injections of RPV LA demonstrated favourable local/systemic tolerability in healthy volunteers. RPV pharmacokinetics suggested that clinically relevant plasma concentrations can be achieved with this LA formulation.

[GESIDA/National AIDS Plan: Consensus document on antiretroviral therapy in adults infected by the human immunodeficiency virus (Updated January 2015)]

OBJECTIVE

This consensus document is an update of combined antiretroviral therapy (cART) guidelines and recommendations for HIV-1 infected adult patients.

METHODS

To formulate these recommendations, a panel composed of members of the AIDS Study Group and the AIDS National Plan (GeSIDA/Plan Nacional sobre el Sida) reviewed the efficacy and safety advances in clinical trials, and cohort and pharmacokinetic studies published in medical journals (PubMed and Embase) or presented in medical scientific meetings. The strength of the recommendations, and the evidence that supports them, are based on modified criteria of the Infectious Diseases Society of America.

RESULTS

In this update, cART is recommended for all patients infected by type 1 human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1). The strength and level of the recommendation depends on the CD4+T-lymphocyte count, the presence of opportunistic diseases or comorbid conditions, age, and prevention of transmission of HIV. The objective of cART is to achieve an undetectable plasma viral load. Initial cART should always comprise a combination of 3 drugs, including 2 nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors, and a third drug from a different family. Three out of the ten recommended regimes are regarded as preferential (all of them with an integrase inhibitor as the third drug), and the other seven (based on a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor, a ritonavir-boosted protease inhibitor, or an integrase inhibitor) as alternatives. This update presents the causes and criteria for switching cART in patients with undetectable plasma viral load, and in cases of virological failure where rescue cART should comprise 3 (or at least 2) drugs that are fully active against the virus. An update is also provided for the specific criteria for cART in special situations (acute infection, HIV-2 infection, and pregnancy) and with comorbid conditions (tuberculosis or other opportunistic infections, kidney disease, liver disease, and cancer).

CONCLUSIONS

These new guidelines update previous recommendations related to cART (when to begin and what drugs should be used), how to monitor and what to do in case of viral failure or drug adverse reactions. cART specific criteria in comorbid patients and special situations are equally updated.

Efavirenz-Based Regimens in Antiretroviral-Naive HIV-Infected Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Efavirenz, a non-nucleoside reverse-transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI) is one of the most commonly prescribed antiretroviral drugs. The present article provides a systematic overview and meta-analysis of clinical trials comparing efavirenz and other active drugs currently recommended for treatment of HIV-infected, antiretroviral-naive patients. Electronic databases (Pubmed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, Trip Database) were searched up till 23 December 2013 for randomized controlled clinical trials published as a peer-reviewed papers, and concerning efavirenz-based regimens used as initial treatment for HIV infection. Thirty-four studies were included in the systematic review, while twenty-six trials were suitable for the meta-analysis. Efavirenz was compared with drugs from four different classes: NNRTIs other than efavirenz (nevirapine or rilpivirine), integrase strand transfer inhibitors (InSTIs), ritonavir-boosted protease inhibitors (bPI) and chemokine (C-C motif) receptor 5 (CCR5) antagonists (maraviroc), all of them were added to the background regimen. Results of the current meta-analysis showed that efavirenz-based regimens were equally effective as other recommended regimens based on NNRTI, ritonavir-boosted PI or CCR5 antagonist in terms of efficacy outcomes (disease progression and/or death, plasma viral HIV RNA <50 copies/ml) while statistically significant more patients treated with InSTI achieved plasma viral load <50 copies/ml at week 48. In comparison with both InSTI-based and CCR5-based therapy, efavirenz-based treatment was associated with a higher risk of therapy discontinuation due to adverse events. However, comparisons of efevirenz-based treatment with InSTI-based and CCR5-based therapy were based on a limited number of trials, therefore, conclusions from these two comparisons must be confirmed in further reliable randomized controlled studies. Results of our meta-analysis support the present clinical guidelines for antiretroviral-naive, HIV-infected patients, in which efavirenz is one of the most preferred regimens in the analyzed population. Beneficial safety profile of InSTI-based and CCR5-based therapy over efavirenz-based treatment needs further studies.

Guidelines for antiretroviral therapy in HIV-1 infected adults and adolescents 2014, Thailand

New evidence has emerged regarding when to commence antiretroviral therapy (ART), optimal treatment regimens, management of HIV co-infection with opportunistic infections, and management of ART failure. The 2014 guidelines were developed by the collaborations of the Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) and the Thai AIDS Society (TAS). One of the major changes in the guidelines included recommending to initiating ART irrespective of CD4 cell count. However, it is with an emphasis that commencing HAART at CD4 cell count above 500 cell/mm³ is for public health, in term of preventing HIV transmission and personal benefit. In tuberculosis co-infected patients with CD4 cell counts ≤50 cells/mm³ or with CD4 cell counts >50 cells/mm³ who have severe clinical disease, ART should be initiated within 2 weeks of starting tuberculosis treatment. The preferred initial ART regimen in treatment naïve patients is efavirenz combined with tenofovir and emtricitabine or lamivudine. Plasma HIV viral load assessment should be done twice a year until achieving undetectable results; and will then be monitored once a year. CD4 cell count should be monitored every 6 months until CD4 cell count ≥350 cells/mm³ and with plasma HIV viral load <50 copies/mL; then it should be monitored once a year afterward. HIV drug resistance genotypic test is indicated when plasma HIV viral load >1,000 copies/mL while on ART. Ritonavir-boosted lopinavir or atazanavir in combination with optimized two nucleoside-analogue reverse transcriptase inhibitors is recommended after initial ART regimen failure. Long-term ART-related safety monitoring has also been included in the guidelines.

Beginning antiretroviral therapy for patients with HIV

In this article, we review the options for initial antiretroviral therapy, including the data from clinical trials to support these choices and the factors to consider in selection of a regimen to best fit each patient.

Persistence and adherence to single-tablet regimens in HIV treatment: a cohort study from the French National Healthcare Insurance Database

OBJECTIVES

To compare adherence and persistence (continuous treatment with a prescribed medication) in HIV adult patients who received combination ART (cART) as a once-daily single-tablet regimen (STR) versus other administration schedules.

METHODS

A representative random sample of the French National Healthcare Insurance Database was used. Adherence and persistence were compared according to their administration schedules using χ(2) and survival analyses. STRs were marketed in France in 2009 and the study period was selected to allow a sufficient number of patients with an STR and a relevant duration of follow-up.

RESULTS

During the period covered (2006-11), 362 HIV-positive adult antiretroviral-naive patients (566 lines of treatments) were selected. The mean rates of adherence were 89.6% for the STR (tenofovir/emtricitabine/efavirenz; n = 76), 86.4% for cART with >1 pill once daily (n = 242) and 77.0% for cART with >1 daily intake (n = 248; P < 0.0001 versus STR). Kaplan-Meier estimations of persistence after 2 years of treatment were 79.1% for the STR, 53.3% for cART with >1 pill once daily and 51.8% for cART with >1 daily intake (P = 0.001; log-rank test). Sensitivity analyses confirmed these results. After excluding treatment sequences showing a switch from tenofovir/emtricitabine plus efavirenz to the similar STR, the rates of persistence were 80.3% for the STR (n = 60), 77.3% for atazanavir-containing cART (n = 96) and 68.3% for darunavir-containing cART (n = 56) at 18 months (global P = 0.006).

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that persistence is higher in HIV patients treated with an STR compared with other administration schedules. Significant benefit in terms of adherence was observed with the STR in comparison with regimens with >1 daily intake but no difference was observed when comparing with regimens involving >1 pill once daily.

Short communication: Lipids and cardiovascular risk after switching HIV-1 patients on nevirapine and emtricitabine/tenofovir-DF to rilpivirine/emtricitabine/tenofovir-DF

Antiretroviral therapy-related dyslipidemia increases the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and is less frequently observed with nevirapine. Whether substituting rilpivirine for nevirapine has dyslipidemic consequences and alters CVD risk is unknown. The aim of this prospective open-label clinical trial was to evaluate serum lipids, cardiovascular risks, and lipid treatment goals over 48 weeks after switching from nevirapine to rilpivirine. Fifty HIV-1-suppressed patients on stable once-daily nevirapine plus emtricitabine/tenofovir-DF were switched to single-tablet rilpivirine/emtricitabine/tenofovir-DF. Lifestyle, weight, systolic blood pressure (SBP), ≥6 h overnight fasting lipids, 10-year Framingham risk scores (FRS), and Adult Treatment Panel III (ATP-III) lipid goals were evaluated over 48 weeks. Patients were 82% males, were a median of 45 years of age, and were on nevirapine for a median of 66 months. Diets, exercise levels, body mass index, and smoking status did not change during follow-up. At week 24, significant changes (p<0.001) were seen in mean [95% confidence interval (CI)] total cholesterol (-0.67 mmol/liter, CI: -0.50 to -0.83), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (-0.36, CI: -0.21 to -0.51), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (-0.28, CI: -0.20 to -0.35). The total cholesterol/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio increased 0.20 (CI: 0.02 to 0.37; p=0.029). Triglycerides did not change and the SBP decreased 6 mmHg (CI: -1.7 to -10.3; p=0.007). Week 48 lipid profiles and SBP were similar to week 24. The median FRS did not change during follow-up (-0.7%, p=0.119). More patients achieved ATP-III low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (+14.9%; p=0.016) and total cholesterol goals (+25.5%; p<0.001). The lipid profile changes after substituting rilpivirine for nevirapine did not significantly influence FRS, although SBP and the ATP-III low-density lipoprotein and total cholesterol goals improved.

Epidemiology and management of antiretroviral-associated cardiovascular disease

Risk and manifestations of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) will continue to evolve as improved treatments and life expectancy of these patients increases. Although initiation of antiretroviral (ARV) therapy has been shown to reduce this risk, some ARV medications may induce metabolic abnormalities, further compounding the risk of CVD. In this patient population, both pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic strategies should be employed to treat and reduce further risk of CVD. This review summarizes epidemiology data of the risk factors and development of CVD in HIV and provides recommendations to manage CVD in HIV-infected patients.

Switch to Rilpivirine/Emtricitabine/Tenofovir Single-Tablet Regimen of Human Immunodeficiency Virus-1 RNA-Suppressed Patients, Agence Nationale de Recherches sur le SIDA et les Hépatites Virales CO3 Aquitaine Cohort, 2012-2014

We evaluated the efficacy and tolerability of a single-tablet regimen strategy in 304 HIV-1 virologically suppressed patients switching to RPV/FTC/TDF for adverse events or treatment simplification. This strategy maintained virologic suppression and was associated with improved tolerability after 12 months follow-up.

Background. The purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy and tolerability of combined antiretroviral therapy (cART) in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-1 virologically suppressed patients who switched to rilpivirine (RPV)/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF)/emtricitabine (FTC) as a single-tablet regimen (STR).

Methods. A retrospective multicenter cohort study was performed between September 2012 and February 2014 in Bordeaux University Hospital-affiliated clinics. Patients with a plasma HIV viral load (VL) lower than 50 copies/mL and switching to STR were evaluated at baseline, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months from switch time (M3, M6, M9, M12) for VL and other biological parameters. Change from baseline in CD4 cell counts was evaluated at M6 and M12. Virological failure (VF) was defined as 2 consecutive VL >50 copies/mL.

Results. Three hundred four patients were included in the analysis. Single-tablet regimen switch was proposed to 116 patients with adverse events, mostly efavirenz (EFV)-based (n = 59), and to 224 patients for cART simplification. Thirty of 196 patients with available genotype resistance test results displayed virus with ≥1 drug resistance mutation on reverse-transcriptase gene. After 12 months of follow-up, 93.4% (95.5% confidence interval, 89.9–96.2) of patients remained virologically suppressed. There was no significant change in CD4 cell count. During the study period, 5 patients experienced VF, one of them harboring RPV resistance mutation. Clinical cART tolerability improved in 79 patients overall (29.9%) at M6, especially neurological symptoms related to EFV. Fasting serum lipid profiles improved, but a significant estimated glomerular function rate decrease (−11 mL/min/1.73 m²; P < 10⁻⁴) was observed.

Conclusions. Overall, virologic suppression was maintained in patients after switching to RPV/TDF/ FTC. This STR strategy was associated with improved tolerability.

Efficacy of tenofovir and efavirenz in combination with lamivudine or emtricitabine in antiretroviral-naive patients in Europe

BACKGROUND

The combination of tenofovir and efavirenz with either lamivudine or emtricitabine (TELE) has proved to be highly effective in clinical trials for first-line treatment of HIV-1 infection. However, limited data are available on its efficacy in routine clinical practice.

METHODS

A multicentre cohort study was performed in therapy-naive patients initiating ART with TELE before July 2009. Efficacy was studied using ITT (missing or switch = failure) and on-treatment (OT) analyses. Genotypic susceptibility scores (GSSs) were determined using the Stanford HIVdb algorithm.

RESULTS

Efficacy analysis of 1608 patients showed virological suppression to <50 copies/mL at 48 weeks in 91.5% (OT) and 70.6% (ITT). Almost a quarter of all patients (22.9%) had discontinued TELE at week 48, mainly due to CNS toxicity. Virological failure within 48 weeks was rarely observed (3.3%, n = 53). In multilevel, multivariate analysis, infection with subtype B (P = 0.011), baseline CD4 count <200 cells/mm³ (P < 0.001), GSS <3 (P = 0.002) and use of lamivudine (P < 0.001) were associated with a higher risk of virological failure. After exclusion of patients using co-formulated compounds, virological failure was still more often observed with lamivudine. Following virological failure, three-quarters of patients switched to a PI-based regimen with GSS <3. After 1 year of second-line therapy, viral load was suppressed to <50 copies/mL in 73.5% (OT).

CONCLUSIONS

In clinical practice, treatment failure on TELE regimens is relatively frequent due to toxicity. Virological failure is rare and more often observed with lamivudine than with emtricitabine. Following virological failure on TELE, PI-based second-line therapy was often successful despite GSS <3.

The efficacy, pharmacokinetics, and safety of a nevirapine to rilpivirine switch in virologically suppressed HIV-1-infected patients

: This prospective, open-label nonrandomized controlled trial evaluated the efficacy, safety, and pharmacokinetics of substituting nevirapine/emtricitabine/tenofovir for rilpivirine/emtricitabine/tenofovir in 50 suppressed HIV-1 switchers. One hundred thirty-nine nonswitchers remained on nevirapine as controls. Week 12 HIV-1 RNA was <50 copies per milliliter in 92.0% of switchers and was <50 copies per milliliter at week 24 in 88.0% of switchers and 90.6% of nonswitchers (difference 2.6%, 95% confidence interval: -7.6% to 12.8%). Week 3 geometric mean nevirapine concentration was undetectable and week 1 geometric mean rilpivirine concentration (0.083 mg/L) was comparable with phase 3 trial (P = 0.747). Substituting nevirapine for rilpivirine resulted in ongoing virological suppression and did not have clinically relevant pharmacokinetic effects by cytochrome P450 interactions.

Predicted residual activity of rilpivirine in HIV-1 infected patients failing therapy including NNRTIs efavirenz or nevirapine

Rilpivirine is a second-generation nonnucleoside reverse-transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI) currently indicated for first-line therapy, but its clinical benefit for HIV-1 infected patients failing first-generation NNRTIs is largely undefined. This study quantified the extent of genotypic rilpivirine resistance in viral isolates from 1212 patients upon failure of efavirenz- or nevirapine-containing antiretroviral treatment, of whom more than respectively 80% and 90% showed high-level genotypic resistance to the failing NNRTI. Of all study patients, 47% showed a rilpivirine resistance-associated mutation (RPV-RAM), whereas preserved residual rilpivirine activity was predicted in half of the patients by three genotypic drug resistance interpretation algorithms. An NNRTI-dependent impact on rilpivirine resistance was detected. Compared with the use of nevirapine, the use of efavirenz was associated with a 32% lower risk of having a RPV-RAM and a 50% lower risk of predicted reduced rilpivirine susceptibility. Most prevalent RPV-RAMs after nevirapine experience were Y181C and H221Y, whereas L100I+K103N, Y188L and K101E occurred most in efavirenz-experienced patients. Predicted rilpivirine activity was not affected by HIV-1 subtype, although frequency of individual mutations differed across subtypes. In conclusion, this genotypic resistance analysis strongly suggests that the latest NNRTI, rilpivirine, may retain activity in a large proportion of HIV-1 patients in whom resistance failed while they were on an efavirenz- or nevirapine-containing regimen, and may present an attractive option for second-line treatment given its good safety profile and dosing convenience. However, prospective clinical studies assessing the effectiveness of rilpivirine for NNRTI-experienced patients are warranted to validate knowledge derived from genotypic and phenotypic drug resistance studies.

Effectiveness and safety of rilpivirine, a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor, in treatment-naive adults infected with HIV-1: a meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to determine the effectiveness and safety of rilpivirine in treatment-naive adults infected with HIV-1.

METHODS

We ran duplicate searches of multiple databases and searchable Web sites of major HIV conferences (May to October 2013) to identify randomized controlled trials reporting the effectiveness and safety of rilpivirine in treatment-naive adults infected with HIV-1. Reference lists from retrieved articles were also reviewed. Data were extracted independently in duplicate using predefined data fields. All analyses used random effects models to calculate the summary treatment effect estimates.

RESULTS

Four randomized controlled trials with a total of 2,522 patients were included. The primary efficacy endpoint was the proportion of patients with confirmed HIV-1 RNA levels of <50 copies/mL (viral load) at 48 weeks. Rilpivirine demonstrated noninferior antiviral efficacy in viral load comparable with efavirenz at 48 weeks (relative risk [RR], 1.03; 95% CI, 0.99-1.07). The mean changes from baseline in CD4 count were similar in both rilpivirine and efavirenz (RR, 1.05; 95% CI, 0.85-1.24). Rilpivirine showed higher and significant difference in virological failure rates compared with the efavirenz group (RR, 1.70; 95% CI, 1.21-2.38). The incidences of the most commonly reported adverse events related to study medication, including rash and neurological events, were lower with rilpivirine than with efavirenz (RR, 0.11; 95% CI, 0.03-0.33; RR, 0.52; 95% CI, 0.45-0.60, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Current evidence suggests a range of favorable effects and a generally favorable safety profile of rilpivirine in treatment-naive adults infected with HIV-1 at week 48.

Effectiveness and safety of rilpivirine, a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor, in treatment-naive adults infected with HIV-1: a meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to determine the effectiveness and safety of rilpivirine in treatment-naive adults infected with HIV-1.

METHODS

We ran duplicate searches of multiple databases and searchable websites of major HIV conferences (up to October 2013) to identify randomized controlled trials reporting the effectiveness and safety of rilpivirine in treatment-naive adults infected with HIV-1. Reference lists from retrieved articles were also reviewed. Data were extracted independently in duplicate using predefined data fields. All analyses used random-effects models to calculate the summary treatment effect estimates.

RESULTS

Four randomized controlled trials with a total of 2522 patients were included in the inclusion criteria. The primary efficacy endpoint was the proportion of patients with confirmed HIV-1 RNA levels of  < 50 copies/ml (viral load) at 48 weeks. Rilpivirine demonstrated non-inferior antiviral efficacy in viral load comparable with efavirenz at 48 weeks [relative risk (RR) = 1.03, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.99-1.07]. The mean changes from baseline in CD4 count were similar in both rilpivirine and efavirenz (RR = 1.05, 95% CI: 0.85-1.24). Rilpivirine showed higher and significant difference in virological failure rates comparing with the efavirenz group (RR = 1.70, 95% CI: 1.21-2.38). The incidences of the most commonly reported adverse events related to study medication, including rash, and neurological events, were lower with rilpivirine than with efavirenz (RR = 0.11, 95% CI: 0.03-0.33; RR = 0.52, 95% CI: 0.45-0.60, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Current evidence suggests a range of favorable effects and a generally favorable safety profile of rilpivirine in treatment-naive adults infected with HIV-1 at week 48.

96-week resistance analyses of the STaR study: rilpivirine/emtricitabine/tenofovir DF versus efavirenz/emtricitabine/tenofovir DF in antiretroviral-naive, HIV-1-infected subjects

BACKGROUND

STaR (GS-US-264-0110) was a 96-week phase 3b study evaluating the safety and efficacy of two single-tablet regimens, rilpivirine/emtricitabine/tenofovir DF (RPV/FTC/TDF) and efavirenz/emtricitabine/tenofovir DF (EFV/FTC/TDF) in treatment-naive, HIV-1-infected subjects.

METHODS

Genotypic analyses (population sequencing) of HIV-1 protease (PR) and reverse transcriptase (RT) were performed at screening; subjects with pre-existing resistance to study drugs were excluded. The protocol-defined resistance analysis population had genotypic/phenotypic analyses at failure and baseline for PR and RT.

RESULTS

Through week 96, the resistance analysis population included 24/394 subjects (6.1%) receiving RPV/FTC/TDF and 9/392 subjects (2.3%) receiving EFV/FTC/TDF. In the RPV/FTC/TDF arm, HIV-1 isolates from 21/394 subjects (5.3%) developed non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI) and/or nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) resistance mutations and 20/21 isolates had both NNRTI and NRTI genotypic and/or phenotypic resistance. In the EFV/FTC/TDF arm, isolates from 4/392 subjects (1.0%) developed NNRTI and/or NRTI resistance mutations. Resistance development after week 48 was infrequent (1.0% RPV/FTC/TDF; 0.3% EFV/FTC/TDF). When stratified by baseline HIV-1 RNA ≤  or >100 000 copies/ml, 9/260 (3.5%) versus 12/134 (9.0%) RPV/FTC/TDF-treated subjects and 3/250 (1.2%) versus 1/142 (0.7%) EFV/FTC/TDF-treated subjects developed resistant isolates, respectively. Pre-existing NRTI- and NNRTI-associated resistance mutations (not related to study drugs) did not impact treatment response to either regimen.

CONCLUSIONS

Resistance development to RPV/FTC/TDF consisted of NNRTI and NRTI mutations and was more frequent than resistance development to EFV/FTC/TDF through week 96. Emergent resistance after week 48 was infrequent in both arms. Within the RPV/FTC/TDF arm, resistance development was more frequent in subjects with baseline HIV-1 RNA >100 000 copies/ml compared to baseline HIV-1 RNA ≤ 100 000 copies/ml.

Impact of drug resistance-associated amino acid changes in HIV-1 subtype C on susceptibility to newer nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors

The objective of this study was to assess the phenotypic susceptibility of HIV-1 subtype C isolates, with nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI) resistance-associated amino acid changes, to newer NNRTIs. A panel of 52 site-directed mutants and 38 clinically derived HIV-1 subtype C clones was created, and the isolates were assessed for phenotypic susceptibility to etravirine (ETR), rilpivirine (RPV), efavirenz (EFV), and nevirapine (NVP) in an in vitro single-cycle phenotypic assay. The amino acid substitutions E138Q/R, Y181I/V, and M230L conferred high-level resistance to ETR, while K101P and Y181I/V conferred high-level resistance to RPV. Y181C, a major NNRTI resistance-associated amino acid substitution, caused decreased susceptibility to ETR and, to a lesser extent, RPV when combined with other mutations. These included N348I and T369I, amino acid changes in the connection domain that are not generally assessed during resistance testing. However, the prevalence of these genotypes among subtype C sequences was, in most cases, <1%. The more common EFV/NVP resistance-associated substitutions, such as K103N, V106M, and G190A, had no major impact on ETR or RPV susceptibility. The low-level resistance to RPV and ETR conferred by E138K was not significantly enhanced in the presence of M184V/I, unlike for EFV and NVP. Among patient samples, 97% were resistant to EFV and/or NVP, while only 24% and 16% were resistant to ETR and RPV, respectively. Overall, only a few, relatively rare NNRTI resistance-associated amino acid substitutions caused resistance to ETR and/or RPV in an HIV-1 subtype C background, suggesting that these newer NNRTIs would be effective in NVP/EFV-experienced HIV-1 subtype C-infected patients.

In vitro resistance selection with doravirine (MK-1439), a novel nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor with distinct mutation development pathways

Doravirine (DOR, formerly known as MK-1439) is a human immunodeficiency type 1 virus (HIV-1) nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI) that is currently in phase 2b clinical trials. In vitro resistance selection of subtype B virus (MT4-green fluorescent protein [GFP] cells), as well as subtype A and C viruses (MT4-GFP/CCR5 cells) was conducted with DOR, rilpivirine (RPV), and efavirine (EFV) under low-multiplicity-of-infection conditions in a 96-well format. Resistance selection was performed with escalating concentrations of the NNRTIs ranging from the 95% effective concentration (1 × EC(95)) to 1,000 × EC(95) in the presence of 10% fetal bovine serum. In the resistance selection of subtype B virus with DOR, a V106A mutant virus led to two mutation pathways, followed by the emergence separately of either F227L or L234I. In the resistance selection of subtype A and C viruses, similar mutation development pathways were detected, in which a V106A or V106M mutant was also the starting virus in the pathways. Mutations that are commonly associated with RPV and EFV in clinical settings were also identified in subtype B viruses such as the E138K and K103N mutants, respectively, in this in vitro resistance selection study. The susceptibility of subtype B mutant viruses selected by DOR, RPV, and EFV to NNRTIs was evaluated. Results suggest that mutant viruses selected by DOR are susceptible to RPV and EFV and mutants selected by RPV and EFV are susceptible to DOR. When the replication capacity of the V106A mutant was compared with that of the wild-type (WT) virus, the mutant virus was 4-fold less fit than the WT virus.

Clinical practice guideline for the management of chronic kidney disease in patients infected with HIV: 2014 update by the HIV Medicine Association of the Infectious Diseases Society of America

It is important to realize that guidelines cannot always account for individual variation among patients. They are not intended to supplant physician judgment with respect to particular patients or special clinical situations. IDSA considers adherence to these guidelines to be voluntary, with the ultimate determination regarding their application to be made by the physician in the light of each patient's individual circumstances.

Outcomes in older versus younger patients over 96 weeks in HIV-1- infected patients treated with rilpivirine or efavirenz in ECHO and THRIVE

Objectives:

Increasing life expectancy of HIV-1–infected patients raises interest in how trial results apply to older patients. This post-hoc analysis evaluated potential differences in efficacy and safety in older (≥50 years) versus younger (<50 years) patients in the ECHO and THRIVE trials over 96 weeks.

Methods:

HIV-infected, treatment-naÏve adults were randomized to receive rilpivirine (RPV) or efavirenz (EFV), plus a background regimen. Virologic response rates (FDA snapshot analysis; HIV-1 RNA <50 copies/mL) were assessed at Week 96. Total-body bone mineral density was evaluated at baseline and Week 96 by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scans. Serum concentrations of 25-hydroxy vitamin D (ECHO trial only) were also measured at baseline, Week 24 and Week 48.

Results:

1368 patients were treated. At Week 96, virologic response rates were similar between older (77%) and younger (76%) RPV-treated patients and numerically higher in older (84%) versus younger (76%) EFV-treated patients. No clinically relevant age-related differences were observed in immunologic responses. Small differences were noted in older versus younger patients in adverse events (higher rates of depression, insomnia, and rash in older EFV-treated patients), laboratory abnormalities (increased low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and hyperglycemia in older EFV-treated patients and increased amylase in older patients across treatments), bone mineral density (larger decreases in older patients across treatments), and progression to severe vitamin D deficiency (greater in older versus younger EFV-treated patients).

Conclusion:

Efficacy and safety outcomes were generally similar in older versus younger patients in the ECHO and THRIVE trials.

Significant reduction in HIV virologic failure during a 15-year period in a setting with free healthcare access

BACKGROUND

Calendar trends in virologic failure (VF) among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients can help to evaluate the performance of healthcare systems and the need for new antiretroviral therapy (ART). We examined the time trend in the rate of VF beyond 6 months of ART between 1997 and 2011 in France.

METHODS

We included patients from the French Hospital Database on HIV who received at least 6 months of ART. VF was defined as 2 consecutive plasma HIV-RNA values >500 copies/mL or as 1 value >500 copies/mL followed by a treatment switch. We adjusted for patients' characteristics by fitting a multivariable generalized estimating equation logistic regression model with an exchangeable covariance matrix.

RESULTS

A total of 81 738 patients were enrolled, and median follow-up was 112.4 months. Median CD4 count was 333 cells/µL, and 23% of patients had HIV infection classified as Centers for Disease Control and Prevention stage C. Overall, 29.3% of patients received single/dual-drug ART initially, and 45.4% of patients experienced at least 1 episode of VF during follow-up. The percentage of patients with VF fell from 61.5% in 1997-1998 to 9.7% in 2009-2011 (P < .0001). Factors associated with the lower frequency of VF were recent calendar period, a higher contemporary CD4 cell count, and first-line regimens based on nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors or integrase inhibitors.

CONCLUSIONS

The proportion of HIV-infected patients experiencing VF during routine care fell markedly between 1997 and 2009-2011, to only 9.7%. This was attributed to the advent of fully active and better-tolerated antiretroviral drugs, and to national guidelines recommending rapid management of VF after mid-2000.

Transmitted drug resistance to rilpivirine in newly diagnosed antiretroviral naive adults

We characterized transmitted drug resistance to rilpivirine and the predicted efficacy of first-line rilpivirine-containing regimens in antiretroviral-naive Spanish patients. International Antiviral Society-USA mutations were detected in 138 of 2781 patients (4.9%), E138A (3.4%) being the most prevalent. Using the Stanford Algorithm, 121 patients (4.4%) showed low-level or intermediate resistance. No differences in the predicted efficacy of first-line non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor-based regimens were observed. As rilpivirine becomes more widely used in clinical practice, the evolution of its transmitted drug resistance will need to be monitored. In addition, the exact role of E138A singletons on rilpivirine activity as part of first-line regimens merits further evaluation.

48-week efficacy and safety of dolutegravir relative to commonly used third agents in treatment-naive HIV-1-infected patients: a systematic review and network meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

A network meta-analysis can provide estimates of relative efficacy for treatments not directly studied in head-to-head randomized controlled trials. We estimated the relative efficacy and safety of dolutegravir (DTG) versus third agents currently recommended by guidelines, including ritonavir-boosted atazanavir (ATV/r), ritonavir-boosted darunavir (DRV/r), efavirenz (EFV), cobicistat-boosted elvitegravir (EVG/c), ritonavir-boosted lopinavir (LPV/r), raltegravir (RAL), and rilpivirine (RPV), in treatment-naive HIV-1-infected patients.

METHODS

A systematic review of published literature was conducted to identify phase 3/4 randomized controlled clinical trials (up to August 2013) including at least one third agent of interest in combination with a backbone nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) regimen. Bayesian fixed-effect network meta-analysis models adjusting for the type of nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor backbone (tenofovir disoproxil fumarate/emtricitabine [TDF/FTC] or abacavir/lamivudine [ABC/3TC]) were used to evaluate week 48 efficacy (HIV-RNA suppression to <50 copies/mL and change in CD4+ cells/µL) and safety (lipid changes, adverse events, and discontinuations due to adverse events) of DTG relative to all other treatments. Sensitivity analyses assessing the impact of NRTI treatment adjustment and random-effects models were performed.

RESULTS

Thirty-one studies including 17,000 patients were combined in the analysis. Adjusting for the effect of NRTI backbone, treatment with DTG resulted in significantly higher odds of virologic suppression (HIV RNA<50 copies/mL) and increase in CD4+ cells/µL versus ATV/r, DRV/r, EFV, LPV/r, and RPV. Dolutegravir had better or equivalent changes in total cholesterol, LDL, triglycerides, and lower odds of adverse events and discontinuation due to adverse events compared to all treatments. Random-effects and unadjusted models resulted in similar conclusions.

CONCLUSION

Three clinical trials of DTG have demonstrated comparable or superior efficacy and safety to DRV, RAL, and EFV in HIV-1-infected treatment-naive patients. This network meta-analysis suggests DTG is also favorable or comparable to other commonly used third agents (ATV/r, LPV/r, RPV, and EVG/c).

Dyslipidemia and cardiovascular risk in human immunodeficiency virus infection

The pathogenesis of atherosclerosis in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected individuals is incompletely understood and appears to be multifactorial. Proatherogenic changes in blood and tissue lipids are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease among HIV-infected subjects, and these changes may be both quantitative (dyslipidemia) and qualitative. In view of the pivotal role of dyslipidemia in the process of atherosclerosis, the increased incidence of dyslipidemia in HIV-infected individuals, and the emerging role of lipid abnormalities in systemic pathophysiologic processes such as immune activation, we review the contributions of dyslipidemia to cardiovascular risk in HIV infection.

Costs and cost-efficacy analysis of the 2014 GESIDA/Spanish National AIDS Plan recommended guidelines for initial antiretroviral therapy in HIV-infected adults

INTRODUCTION

GESIDA and the National AIDS Plan panel of experts suggest preferred (PR) and alternative (AR) regimens of antiretroviral treatment (ART) as initial therapy in HIV-infected patients for 2014. The objective of this study is to evaluate the costs and the efficiency of initiating treatment with these regimens.

METHODS

An economic assessment was made of costs and efficiency (cost/efficacy) based on decision tree analyses. Efficacy was defined as the probability of reporting a viral load <50 copies/mL at week 48, in an intention-to-treat analysis. Cost of initiating treatment with an ART regimen was defined as the costs of ART and its consequences (adverse effects, changes of ART regimen, and drug resistance studies) during the first 48 weeks. The payer perspective (National Health System) was applied by considering only differential direct costs: ART (official prices), management of adverse effects, studies of resistance, and HLA B*5701 testing. The setting is Spain and costs correspond to those of 2014. A sensitivity deterministic analysis was conducted, building three scenarios for each regimen: base case, most favourable and least favourable.

RESULTS

In the base case scenario, the cost of initiating treatment ranges from 5133 Euros for ABC/3TC+EFV to 11,949 Euros for TDF/FTC+RAL. The efficacy varies between 0.66 for ABC/3TC+LPV/r and ABC/3TC+ATV/r, and 0.89 for TDF/FTC/EVG/COBI. Efficiency, in terms of cost/efficacy, ranges from 7546 to 13,802 Euros per responder at 48 weeks, for ABC/3TC+EFV and TDF/FTC+RAL respectively.

CONCLUSION

Considering ART official prices, the most efficient regimen was ABC/3TC+EFV (AR), followed by the non-nucleoside containing PR (TDF/FTC/RPV and TDF/FTC/EFV). The sensitivity analysis confirms the robustness of these findings.

Some current issues in the design of HIV noninferiority trials

Since the introduction of protease inhibitors and their combination with two nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors in tri-therapy, there has been a continuous improvement in the efficacy of antiretroviral treatments. Such combinations have been rendered even more effective by the introduction of non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors and, more recently, integrase inhibitors. This progress has led to a move away from superiority designs towards noninferiority designs for randomized clinical trials for HIV. Noninferiority trials aim to demonstrate that a new regimen is no worse than the current standard. The methodological issues associated with such designs have been discussed, but recent HIV trials provide us with an opportunity to consider the choice of hypotheses. Recent HIV trials have been overpowered, due to the assumption of lower success rates than observed and the enrollment of a large number of patients. The use of stratified statistical methods for primary endpoint analysis, with sample size calculated by classical methods (without stratification), also increases the statistical power. Some HIV trials have a statistical power close to 99%. Surprisingly, the results of some previous studies or phase II trials are not taken into account when designing the corresponding phase III trials. We discuss alternative hypotheses and designs.

Switching to emtricitabine, tenofovir and rilpivirine as single tablet regimen in virologically suppressed HIV-1-infected patients: a cohort study

OBJECTIVES

Emtricitabine/tenofovir/rilpivirine as a single-tablet regimen (STR) is widely used without licence in treatment-experienced patients. The purpose of this retrospective observational study was to assess viral suppression of ART-experienced patients switching to STR.

METHODS

We assessed 131 pretreated patients switching to STR with HIV RNA <400 HIV-1 RNA copies/mL. The primary outcome measure was the proportion of patients at week 24 with HIV RNA <40 copies/mL.

RESULTS

By week 24, eight patients had stopped STR: four because of adverse events and four for other reasons. Three virological failures were observed; among these, at least one patient developed cross-resistance to nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) and nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs), in particular with the E138K pattern. In intent-to-treat analysis, 92% of participants (120 of 131) achieved HIV RNA <40 copies/mL. Only grade 1 to 2 adverse events were observed, mainly consisting of increased liver enzymes (n=33). Systemic exposure to rilpivirine was above the usually observed steady-state levels for the 18 measurements assessed.

CONCLUSIONS

Efficacy and tolerability are similar to those in treatment-naïve patients.

The emerging profile of cross-resistance among the nonnucleoside HIV-1 reverse transcriptase inhibitors

Nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs) are widely used to treat HIV-1-infected individuals; indeed most first-line antiretroviral therapies typically include one NNRTI in combination with two nucleoside analogs. In 2008, the next-generation NNRTI etravirine was approved for the treatment of HIV-infected antiretroviral therapy-experienced individuals, including those with prior NNRTI exposure. NNRTIs are also increasingly being included in strategies to prevent HIV-1 infection. For example: (1) nevirapine is used to prevent mother-to-child transmission; (2) the ASPIRE (MTN 020) study will test whether a vaginal ring containing dapivirine can prevent HIV-1 infection in women; (3) a microbicide gel formulation containing the urea-PETT derivative MIV-150 is in a phase I study to evaluate safety, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and acceptability; and (4) a long acting rilpivirine formulation is under-development for pre-exposure prophylaxis. Given their widespread use, particularly in resource-limited settings, as well as their low genetic barriers to resistance, there are concerns about overlapping resistance between the different NNRTIs. Consequently, a better understanding of the resistance and cross-resistance profiles among the NNRTI class is important for predicting response to treatment, and surveillance of transmitted drug-resistance.

Safety and efficacy of coformulated efavirenz/emtricitabine/tenofovir single-tablet regimen in treatment-naive patients infected with HIV-1

Due to the differences between bioavailability of efavirenz (EFV) and tenofovir (TDF), the single-tablet regimen of EFV/emtricitabine (FTC)/TDF is not approved as initial antiretroviral therapy (ART) in Europe by the European Medical Agency. To compare clinical, immunological, and virological outcomes between co-formulated TDF/FTC+EFV and the co-formulated EFV/FTC/TDF single-tablet regimen in patients infected with HIV-1 naive to ART, the data of patients (n = 231) who initiated either TDF/FTC+EFV (n = 155) or EFV/FTC/TDF (n = 76) between January 1, 2007 and June 1, 2010 were analyzed. Changes from baseline to week 48 (TDF/FTC+EFV vs. EFV/FTC/TDF) in HIV plasma load (- 3.25 log vs. -3.32 log) and CD4+ T cell count (+180 vs. +138 cells/mm3) were similar in the two groups. Treatment discontinuation was recorded in 50 (22%) patients (40 on TDF/FTC+EFV and 10 on EFV/FTC/TDF, P = 0.03) but time to discontinuation did not differ between the two groups. Only patients on TDF/FTC+EFV discontinued treatment because of neurological symptoms. Virological failure occurred in 11 (4.7%) patients (seven on TDF/FTC+EFV and four on EFV/FTC/TDF, P = 0.75) with new resistance-associated mutations in five among the six with successful resistance genotype tests. Only baseline resistance-associated mutations was a risk factor for virological failure (P = 0.0146). These data show comparable outcomes between TDF/FTC+EFV or EFV/FTC/TDF used in patients infected with HIV-1 and not treated previously, consistent with a low rate of virological failure in the absence of pretreatment resistance. This would suggest that the European Medical Agency should approve co-formulated EFV/FTC/TDF single-tablet regimen for patients naive to ART.

Antiretroviral therapy: treatment-experienced individuals

Antiretroviral therapy (ART)-experienced individuals may choose to modify their regimens because of suboptimal virologic response, poor tolerability, convenience, or to minimize interactions with other medications or food. Constructing a new regimen for any of these reasons requires a thorough review of prior antiretroviral drug use and available drug resistance results. This article summarizes the strategies used in managing the ART-experienced individual who is considering a modification in therapy at the time of suboptimal virologic response or while virologically suppressed on a stable regimen.

[GeSIDA/National AIDS Plan: Consensus document on antiretroviral therapy in adults infected by the human immunodeficiency virus (Updated January 2014)]

OBJECTIVE

This consensus document is an update of combined antiretroviral therapy (cART) guidelines for HIV-1 infected adult patients.

METHODS

To formulate these recommendations a panel composed of members of the Grupo de Estudio de Sida and the Plan Nacional sobre el Sida reviewed the efficacy and safety advances in clinical trials, cohort and pharmacokinetic studies published in medical journals (PubMed and Embase) or presented in medical scientific meetings. Recommendations strength and the evidence in which they are supported are based on modified criteria of the Infectious Diseases Society of America.

RESULTS

In this update, antiretroviral therapy (ART) is recommended for all patients infected by type 1 human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1). The strength and grade of the recommendation varies with the clinical circumstances: CDC stage B or C disease (A-I), asymptomatic patients (depending on the CD4+ T-lymphocyte count: <350cells/μL, A-I; 350-500 cells/μL, A-II, and >500 cells/μL, B-III), comorbid conditions (HIV nephropathy, chronic hepatitis caused by HBV or HCV, age >55years, high cardiovascular risk, neurocognitive disorders, and cancer, A-II), and prevention of transmission of HIV (mother-to-child or heterosexual, A-I; men who have sex with men, A-III). The objective of ART is to achieve an undetectable plasma viral load. Initial ART should always comprise a combination of 3 drugs, including 2 nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors and a third drug from a different family (non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor, protease inhibitor, or integrase inhibitor). Some of the possible initial regimens have been considered alternatives. This update presents the causes and criteria for switching ART in patients with undetectable plasma viral load and in cases of virological failure where rescue ART should comprise 2 or 3 drugs that are fully active against the virus. An update is also provided for the specific criteria for ART in special situations (acute infection, HIV-2 infection, and pregnancy) and with comorbid conditions (tuberculosis or other opportunistic infections, kidney disease, liver disease, and cancer).

CONCLUSIONS

These new guidelines updates previous recommendations related to cART (when to begin and what drugs should be used), how to monitor and what to do in case of viral failure or drug adverse reactions. cART specific criteria in comorbid patients and special situations are equally updated.

French 2013 guidelines for antiretroviral therapy of HIV-1 infection in adults

Introduction

These guidelines are part of the French Experts’ recommendations for the management of people living with HIV/AIDS, which were made public and submitted to the French health authorities in September 2013. The objective was to provide updated recommendations for antiretroviral treatment (ART) of HIV-positive adults. Guidelines included the following topics: when to start, what to start, specific situations for the choice of the first session of antiretroviral therapy, optimization of antiretroviral therapy after virologic suppression, and management of virologic failure.

Methods

Ten members of the French HIV 2013 expert group were responsible for guidelines on ART. They systematically reviewed the most recent literature. The chairman of the subgroup was responsible for drafting the guidelines, which were subsequently discussed within, and finalized by the whole expert group to obtain a consensus. Recommendations were graded for strength and level of evidence using predefined criteria. Economic considerations were part of the decision-making process for selecting preferred first-line options. Potential conflicts of interest were actively managed throughout the whole process.

Results

ART should be initiated in any HIV-positive person, whatever his/her CD4 T-cell count, even when >500/mm³. The level of evidence of the individual benefit of ART in terms of mortality or progression to AIDS increases with decreasing CD4 cell count. Preferred initial regimens include two nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (tenofovir/emtricitabine or abacavir/lamivudine) plus a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (efavirenz or rilpivirine), or a ritonavir-boosted protease inhibitor (atazanavir or darunavir). Raltegravir, lopinavir/r, and nevirapine are recommended as alternative third agents, with specific indications and restrictions. Specific situations such as HIV infection in women, primary HIV infection, severe immune suppression with or without identified opportunistic infection, and person who injects drugs are addressed. Options for optimization of ART once virologic suppression is achieved are discussed. Evaluation and management of virologic failure are described, the aim of any intervention in such situation being to reduce plasma viral load to <50 copies/ml.

Conclusion

These guidelines recommend that any HIV-positive individual should be treated with ART. This recommendation was issued both for the patient’s own sake and for promoting treatment as prevention.

Rilpivirine resistance and the dangerous liaisons with substitutions at position 184 among patients infected with HIV-1: analysis from a national drug-resistance database (ARCA)

Rilpivirine (RPV) is a novel NNRTI with a mutational pattern different from first-generation drugs of the same class: 16 resistance-associated mutations (RAM) are listed, but the combination E138K + M184I seems to be the most important. Aims of the present study were to evaluate the prevalence of these RAMs in Italian HIV-1 infected patients and to assess if previous drug history could represent a risk to develop RPV-related RAMs. The analysis was performed using the ARCA database, which contains data on resistance and therapy from subjects throughout Italy. Prevalence of RPV-associated and first-generation NNRTI-associated RAMs was evaluated. Linear regression model, odds ratio and 95% Confidence Interval were used to assess factors associated with the development of RPV RAMs, substitutions at position 184 and their combinations. A total of 8,067 tests were selected within the database. In Italian HIV-positive HAART-naïve patients, prevalence of the main RAMs for RPV is low except for E138A (present in 5.1% of subjects). The combination E138K + M184I is absent in both naïve and experienced subjects. A previous exposure to NVP might increase the risk to develop RPV-associated RAMs. TDF, EFV, and possibly FTC may predispose to the selection for M184I. Among Italian patients the susceptibility to RPV is widespread since some severe substitutions (e.g., E138K are rare), whereas issues exist for others (i.e., E138A, Y181C) which are more frequent. Appropriate use of RPV within a therapeutic sequencing might be controversial.