Integrase strand transfer inhibitors and neuropsychiatric adverse events in a large prospective cohort

Reversibility of Neuropsychiatric Adverse Events after Switching to Darunavir/Cobicistat or Doravirine in Men on INSTI-Based Regimen

Integrase strand transfer inhibitors (INSTI) are associated with neuropsychiatric adverse events (NPAEs). The aim of this study was to evaluate improvements in NPAEs after switching an INSTI-based regimen to darunavir/cobicistat (DRV/c) or doravirine (DOR). Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted to evaluate the reversibility of NPAEs via the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS-A and D) in patients who started antiretroviral therapy with dolutegravir (DTG) or bictegravir (BIC). These patients were switched to DRV/c or DOR. Scales were compared at the moment of the switch and 12 weeks later. Results: We included 1153 treatment-naïve men, 676 (58.7%) with BIC and 477 (41.3%) with DTG. A total of 32 (2.7%) experienced NPAEs that led to discontinuation. Insomnia was found in 20 patients; depression via PHQ-9 in 21 patients, via HADS-D in 5 patients, and anxiety via HADS-A in 12 patients. All of them were evaluated by a psychiatrist at the moment of the symptoms; 7 (21.8%) started psychotropic drugs. After 12 weeks of follow-up, PHQ-9, ISI, HADS-A, and HADS-D decreased, with a p-value ≤ 0.05. Conclusions: NPAEs seem to improve after switching to a DRV/c- or DOR-based regimen after the first 4 and 12 weeks.

Efficacy and Safety of Switching to Dolutegravir/Lamivudine in Virologically Suppressed People Living with HIV-1 Aged Over 65 Years

Clinical trials of dual regimen dolutegravir/lamivudine (DOL/3TC) demonstrated potent efficacy and favorable safety in both antiretroviral therapy-naïve and -experienced patients, but data on older people are lacking. We aimed to evaluate virological efficacy and safety of DOL/3TC in suppressed older patients over a 12-month period. We performed a retrospective cohort study evaluating people living with HIV (PLWHIV) aged ≥65 years at our HIV Clinic who were switched to DOL/3TC. Eligible patients had baseline HIV-1 RNA <20 copies/mL, and no previous virological failures or known resistance mutations for lamivudine or dolutegravir. Inclusion criteria were met by 72 patients: 59 were men, median age was 69.2 years, and one or more comorbidities were present in 89% of patients. The most common reason for switch was simplification, followed by drug-drug interactions (DDIs) and toxicities. After 12 months, 64 (88.9%, by the intention-to-treat analysis) patients maintained HIV-1 RNA <20 copies/mL, and reasons for treatment failure were virological failure in three cases, adverse events in three, and missing data in two. Genotype resistance testing showed no resistance mutations for lamivudine or dolutegravir in subjects with virological failure. The number of potential DDIs decreased from 92 to 12 after switching to DOL/3TC, and a significant reduction in median total and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol was reported, while median change in body weight was not significant. In this real-life cohort, switching to DOL/3TC was associated with maintenance of virological control and good tolerability among persons aged >65 years, supporting use of this dual regimen in older PLWHIV.

Common antiretroviral combinations are associated with somatic depressive symptoms in women with HIV

OBJECTIVE

While modern antiretroviral therapy (ART) is highly effective and safe, depressive symptoms have been associated with certain ART drugs. We examined the association between common ART regimens and depressive symptoms in women with HIV (WWH) with a focus on somatic vs. nonsomatic symptoms.

DESIGN

Analysis of longitudinal data from the Women's Interagency HIV Study.

METHODS

Participants were classified into three groups based on the frequency of positive depression screening (CES-D ≥16): chronic depression (≥50% of visits since study enrollment), infrequent depression (<50% of visits), and never depressed (no visits). Novel Bayesian machine learning methods building upon a subset-tree kernel approach were developed to estimate the combined effects of ART regimens on depressive symptoms in each group after covariate adjustment.

RESULTS

The analysis included 1538 WWH who participated in 12 924 (mean = 8.4) visits. The mean age was 49.9 years, 72% were Black, and 14% Hispanic. In the chronic depression group, combinations including tenofovir alafenamide and cobicistat-boosted elvitegravir and/or darunavir were associated with greater somatic symptoms of depression, whereas those combinations containing tenofovir disoproxil fumarate and efavirenz or rilpivirine were associated with less somatic depressive symptoms. ART was not associated with somatic symptoms in the infrequent depression or never depressed groups. ART regimens were not associated with nonsomatic symptoms in any group.

CONCLUSIONS

Specific ART combinations are associated with somatic depressive symptoms in WWH with chronic depression. Future studies should consider specific depressive symptoms domains as well as complete drug combinations when assessing the relationship between ART and depression.

Incidence and determinants of adverse events in individuals with HIV commencing Dolutegravir-based antiretroviral therapy in mainland Tanzania

Tanzania adopted a Dolutegravir (DTG)-based regimen as first-line treatment in 2019 following the World Health Organization recommendation. Data on the DTG safety profile from sub-Saharan Africa including Tanzania are limited. We investigated the incidence of DTG-related adverse events (AEs) and associated factors among people living with HIV (PLHIV) initiated on a DTG regimen. A prospective cohort study was conducted from 25 Care and Treatment Clinics in mainland Tanzania. PLHIV aged 12 years and above who were initiated on a DTG-based regimen were actively followed up for three months. The Cox regression model was used to determine the predictors of occurrence of AEs over time. A p-value of 0.05 was considered statistically significant. From January 2020 to June 2022, a cohort of 935 participants who were both newly diagnosed and ART-experienced who transitioned to a DTG-based regimen was enrolled. Out of 935 participants, 59 (6.3%) reported a total of 62 AEs. The most frequently experienced AE was skin itching and rashes (15/62; 24.2%). DTG-associated neuropsychiatric AEs were less common and included headache (6 [9.6%]) and sleep disturbances (3 [4.8%]). The overall incidence of occurrence of the first AEs was 96.7 per 1000 person-months [95% C.I: 74.4-125.7] with the highest incidence observed among the elderly (≥ 60 years). Individuals on WHO HIV Clinical Stage 2 had a 2.7 significantly higher risk of developing AEs (adjusted hazard ratio = 2.73, 95% CI = 1.46-5.12, p = 0.017). We report a low incidence of grade I (mild) and grade II (moderate) DTG-associated AEs suggesting that the regimen is generally safe in the population. Continued monitoring of DTG safety in the population is recommended.

Impact of Integrase Strand Transfer Inhibitors on Cognition in the HAILO Cohort

BACKGROUND

Integrase inhibitors (INSTIs) have been associated with poorer cognition in people with HIV (PWH). We examined the impact of switching to INSTIs on neuropsychological (NP) outcomes in PWH 40 years of age and older.

METHODS

From the AIDS Clinical Trials Group observational cohort study, HAILO, we identified PWH who switched to INSTIs, had ≥2 NP assessments before and at least 1 after switch, and maintained viral suppression while on INSTIs. NP performance was assessed with a composite score (NPZ4) including Hopkins Verbal Learning Test (HVLT-R), Digit Symbol test (DSY), Trail Making A, and Trail Making B, while adjusting for covariates and learning effects. Outcomes changes from preswitch and postswitch periods were estimated using piecewise linear mixed models.

RESULTS

Among 395 PWH (mean age 54 years, 81% male, 20% Hispanic, and 29% Black) NPZ4 increased preswitch and postswitch. There was no difference in slopes between periods for NPZ4 [preswitch 0.036/year (95% CI: 0.03 to 0.043); postswitch 0.022/year (95% CI: 0.006 to 0.005); P = 0.147]. All tests scores improved preswitch (P < 0.01). Postswitch, Trail Making A and DSY increased (all P < 0.01) without differences in rate of change (all P > 0.05). HVLT-R had a nonsignificant decrease postswitch (P = 0.22), resulting in a significant preswitch vs postswitch difference in slopes (P = 0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

NP performance improved regardless of INSTI use. There was an attenuation of improvement in verbal memory in the postswitch vs preswitch period. The clinical significance of these changes is unclear but, overall, INSTIs did not have a consistent detrimental effect on NP outcomes.

Central nervous system disorders after use of dolutegravir: evidence from preclinical and clinical studies

The evaluation of dolutegravir based on available preclinical and clinical studies reveals a risk of central nervous system (CNS) disorders associated with long-term use of the drug. The available literature on the pharmacokinetics of the drug, including its penetration of the blood-brain barrier, was reviewed, as well as clinical trials assessing the incidence of adverse effects in the CNS and the frequency of its discontinuation. This paper also summarizes the impact of factors affecting the occurrence of CNS disorders and indicates the key role of pharmacovigilance in the process of supplementing knowledge on the safety of drugs, especially those that are newly registered.

Effectiveness and safety of integrase strand transfer inhibitors in Spain: a prospective real-world study

Introduction

Second-generation integrase strand transfer inhibitors (INSTIs) are preferred treatment options worldwide, and dolutegravir (DTG) is the treatment of choice in resource-limited settings. Nevertheless, in some resource-limited settings, these drugs are not always available. An analysis of the experience with the use of INSTIs in unselected adults living with HIV may be of help to make therapeutic decisions when second-generation INSTIs are not available. This study aimed to evaluate the real-life effectiveness and safety of dolutegravir (DTG), elvitegravir/cobicistat (EVG/c), and raltegravir (RAL) in a large Spanish cohort of HIV-1-infected patients.

Methods

Real-world study of adults living with HIV who initiated integrase INSTIs DTG, EVG/c, and RAL-based regimens in three settings (ART-naïve patients, ART-switching, and ART-salvage patients). The primary endpoint was the median time to treatment discontinuation after INSTI-based regimen initiation. Proportion of patients experiencing virological failure (VF) (defined as two consecutive viral loads (VL) ≥200 copies/mL at 24 weeks or as a single determination of VL ≥1,000 copies/mL while receiving DTG, EVG/c or RAL, and at least 3 months after INSTI initiation) and time to VF were also evaluated.

Results

Virological effectiveness of EVG/c- and RAL-based regimens was similar to that of DTG when given as first-line and salvage therapy. Treatment switching for reasons other than virological failure was more frequent in subjects receiving EVG/c and, in particular, RAL. Naïve patients with CD4+ nadir <100 cells/μL were more likely to develop VF, particularly if they initiated RAL or EVG/c. In the ART switching population, initiation of RAL and EVG/c was associated with both VF and INSTI discontinuation. There were no differences in the time to VF and INSTI discontinuation between DTG, EVG/c and RAL. Immunological parameters improved in the three groups and for the three drugs assessed. Safety and tolerability were consistent with expected safety profiles.

Discussion

Whereas second-generation INSTIs are preferred treatment options worldwide, and DTG is one of the treatment of choices in resource-limited settings, first-generation INSTIs may still provide high virological and immunological effectiveness when DTG is not available.

Treatment-related early discontinuations and adverse events among newly diagnosed people living with HIV initiating integrase inhibitors in a real-world setting

BACKGROUND

Cohort studies suggest higher discontinuation rates with integrase strand transfer inhibitors (INSTIs) than are seen in clinical trials. We assessed discontinuations and adverse events (AEs) that were considered related to the initial INSTI in the first year following initiation among treatment-naïve people living with HIV (PLWH).

METHODS

Newly diagnosed PLWH initiating raltegravir, elvitegravir/cobicistat, dolutegravir or bictegravir in combination with emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide or emtricitabine/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate between 10/2007 and 1/2020 at the Orlando Immunology Center were included. Unadjusted incidence rates (IRs) and incidence rate ratios (IRRs) were calculated for treatment-related discontinuations and AEs associated with the initial INSTI in the first year following initiation.

RESULTS

Of 331 enrolled, 26 (8%) initiated raltegravir, 151 (46%) initiated elvitegravir/cobicistat, 74 (22%) initiated dolutegravir and 80 (24%) initiated bictegravir. Within the first year, treatment-related discontinuations occurred in 3 on elvitegravir/cobicistat (IR 0.02 per person-years (PPY)) and 5 on dolutegravir (IR 0.08 PPY); no treatment-related discontinuations occurred among those initiating raltegravir or bictegravir. Eleven treatment-related AEs occurred in 7 on raltegravir (IR 0.46 PPY), 100 treatment-related AEs occurred in 63 on elvitegravir/cobicistat (IR 0.72 PPY), 66 treatment-related AEs occurred in 37 on dolutegravir (IR 0.97 PPY) and 65 treatment-related AEs occurred in 34 on bictegravir (IR 0.88 PPY). Unadjusted IRRs did not reveal any significant difference between INSTIs in terms of early treatment-related discontinuations or AEs.

CONCLUSIONS

In our cohort, treatment-related AEs occurred in 43% initiating INSTIs but were responsible for early discontinuation in only 2% with no treatment-related discontinuations observed among those initiating RAL or BIC.

HIV-1 Integrase Strand Transfer Inhibitors and Neurodevelopment

Children born to mothers, with or at risk, of human immunodeficiency virus type-1 (HIV-1) infection are on the rise due to affordable access of antiretroviral therapy (ART) to pregnant women or those of childbearing age. Each year, up to 1.3 million HIV-1-infected women on ART have given birth with recorded mother-to-child HIV-1 transmission rates of less than 1%. Despite this benefit, the outcomes of children exposed to antiretroviral drugs during pregnancy, especially pre- and post- natal neurodevelopment remain incompletely understood. This is due, in part, to the fact that pregnant women are underrepresented in clinical trials. This is underscored by any potential risks of neural tube defects (NTDs) linked, in measure, to periconceptional usage of dolutegravir (DTG). A potential association between DTG and NTDs was first described in Botswana in 2018. Incidence studies of neurodevelopmental outcomes associated with DTG, and other integrase strand transfer inhibitors (INSTIs) are limited as widespread use of INSTIs has begun only recently in pregnant women. Therefore, any associations between INSTI use during pregnancy, and neurodevelopmental abnormalities remain to be explored. Herein, United States Food and Drug Administration approved ARVs and their use during pregnancy are discussed. We provide updates on INSTI pharmacokinetics and adverse events during pregnancy together with underlying mechanisms which could affect fetal neurodevelopment. Overall, this review seeks to educate both clinical and basic scientists on potential consequences of INSTIs on fetal outcomes as a foundation for future scientific investigations.

Contraception use and HIV outcomes among women initiating dolutegravir-containing antiretroviral therapy in Kenya: a retrospective cohort study

INTRODUCTION

The rollout of dolutegravir (DTG) in low- and middle-income countries was disrupted by a potential association reported with periconceptional DTG exposure among women living with HIV (WLHIV) and infant neural tube defects. This prompted countries to issue interim guidance limiting DTG use among women of reproductive potential to those on effective contraception. Data to understand the potential impact of such guidance on WLHIV are limited.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort analysis of WLHIV 15-49 years initiating DTG-containing antiretroviral treatment (ART) in Kenya from 2017 to 2020. We determined baseline effective (oral, injectable or lactational amenorrhea) and very effective (implant, intrauterine device or female sterilization) contraception use among women who initiated DTG before (Group 1) or during (Group 2) the interim guideline period. We defined incident contraception use in each group as the number of contraceptive methods initiated ≤180 days post-guideline (Group 1) or post-DTG initiation (Group 2). We determined the proportions of all women who switched from DTG- to non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI)- (efavirenz or nevirapine) containing ART ≤12 months post-DTG initiation, compared their viral suppression (<1000 copies/ml) and conducted multivariable logistic regression to determine factors associated with switching from DTG to NNRTI-containing ART.

RESULTS

Among 5155 WLHIV in the analysis (median age 43 years), 89% initiated DTG after transitioning from an NNRTI. Baseline effective and very effective contraception use, respectively, by the group were: Group 1 (12% and 13%) and Group 2 (41% and 35%). Incident contraception use in each group was <5%. Overall, 498 (10%) women switched from DTG to an NNRTI. Viral suppression among those remaining on DTG versus switched to NNRTI was 95% and 96%, respectively (p = 0.63). In multivariable analysis, incident effective and very effective contraception use was not associated with switching.

CONCLUSIONS

Baseline, but not incident, effective contraception use was higher during the interim guideline period compared to before it, suggesting women already using effective contraception were preferentially selected to initiate DTG after the guideline was released. These findings reveal challenges in the implementation of policy which ties antiretroviral access to contraceptive use. Future guidance should capture nuances of contraception decision-making and support women's agency to make informed decisions.

Dolutegravir Discontinuation for Neuropsychiatric Symptoms in People Living with HIV and Their Outcomes after Treatment Change: A Pharmacogenetic Study

Neuropsychiatric symptoms have been reported in patients receiving dolutegravir, a known inhibitor of the renal and neuronal-expressed organic anion transporter 2 (encoded by SLC22A2 gene). The effect of the genetic variant SLC22A2 808C>A on dolutegravir discontinuation was assessed and analyzed by real-time PCR. We enrolled 627 participants: CA/AA carriers showed a higher prevalence of pre-existing psychiatric comorbidities and use of antidepressants. After 27.9 months, 108 participants discontinued dolutegravir, 64 for neuropsychiatric symptoms. Patients with pre-existing psychiatric comorbidities were at higher risk of dolutegravir discontinuation, while patients carrying the SLC22A2 CA/AA genotype were not. Combining the two variables, an opposite effect of SLC22A2 variants according to pre-existing psychiatric disorders was observed. Using multivariate Cox models, the combined variable pre-existing psychiatric comorbidities/SLC22A2 variants and the use of non-tenofovir alafenamide containing antiretroviral regimens were predictors of dolutegravir discontinuation for neuropsychiatric symptoms. Within 30 days, the majority of participants had a complete resolution of symptoms (61.8%), while 32.7% and 5.5% had partial or no change after dolutegravir discontinuation, respectively. Discontinuation of dolutegravir for neuropsychiatric symptoms was not uncommon and more frequent in participants with pre-existing psychiatric disorders. We described an interaction between SLC22A2 genetic variant and psychiatric comorbidities. In 38.2% of patients, a complete neuropsychiatric symptoms resolution was not observed after dolutegravir discontinuation suggesting the involvement of additional factors.

Prevalence of neuropsychiatric adverse events and associated factors among adult patients on dolutegravir attending Mulago ISS clinic

INTRODUCTION

Dolutegravir (DTG) is a second-generation integrase strand transfer inhibitor that is recommended by the World Health Organization as the preferred first-line and second-line antiretroviral therapy (ART) in patients with HIV. In 2018, Uganda started using DTG-based regimens as the preferred first-line ART. However, concerns regarding the potential neurotoxicity of DTG have been increasing. Data on the occurrence of neuropsychiatric adverse events (NPAEs) and the associated factors among adult patients who are initiated on or switched to DTG-based first-line or second-line ART in Uganda are limited.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to determine the prevalence of NPAEs among adult patients on DTG and the factors associated with their occurrence.

METHODS

We conducted a cross-sectional study using questionnaires administered by a trained research assistant between 15 November 2021 and 15 December 2021. The study included patients aged ≥18 years with HIV who were either initiated on or switched to a DTG-based ART regimen between 1 January 2018 and 31 October 2021. Informed consent and data were collected from 892 participants attending Mulago ISS clinic, including data on age, sex, marital status, disclosure status, current regimen, duration on ART, concurrent illness, concurrent medications, year of switch to DTG, duration on DTG, whether the onset of NPAEs was immediate or delayed, history of alcohol use or smoking, level of education, report of NPAEs while on DTG, and history of NPAEs while on previous regimen. Data were entered into Epidata version 4.6.0.2 then exported to Stata version 14 for analysis.

RESULTS

Of the 892 adults on DTG attending Mulago ISS clinic, 41.7% (95% confidence interval [CI] 38.5%-44.9%) experienced at least one NPAE. DTG duration in years (adjusted prevalence [aPR] = 1.21, p = 0.024), disclosure status (aPR = 1.40, p = 0.042), concurrent medications (aPR = 1.31, p = 0.026), year of switch to DTG, and concurrent illness were associated with an increased occurrence of NPAEs.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of NPAEs was higher than that reported by any clinical trial. About 9.1% of participants had experienced severe to life-threatening NPAEs that required intervention from a healthcare professional to improve tolerability. The high prevalence requires that clinicians screen for NPAEs at very visit and reassure patients to maximize the benefits of long-term ART.

Changes in quality of sleep, mood and other neuropsychiatric symptoms after switching dolutegravir/lamivudine/abacavir to darunavir/cobicistat/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide in a randomized study of people living with HIV with poor sleep quality. GESIDA 10418

Background

While switching ART in people with HIV experiencing insomnia due to dolutegravir-related neurotoxicity is well-founded upon evidence, there is a lack of proof in regards to the outcome of stopping dolutegravir-based ART in people without insomnia but reporting poor sleep quality.

Methods

Randomized, multicentre, open-label study to evaluate reversibility of patient-reported sleep disturbances in patients on dolutegravir/lamivudine/abacavir without insomnia after switching to darunavir/cobicistat/emtricitabine/tenofovir-alafenamide. The participants were randomized to switch ART at baseline or a week 4 and then completed 8 weeks of darunavir/cobicistat/emtricitabine/tenofovir-alafenamide. Our primary objective was to compare changes in sleep quality between arms at week 4. Secondary objectives were to compare changes in mood and neuropsychiatric symptoms (NS) at week 4 and 4 and 8 weeks after switching to darunavir/cobicistat/emtricitabine/tenofovir-alafenamide. The participants completed a survey, including the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), the Hospital Anxiety and Depression scale (HAD) and specific questions to explore NS, at each visit to assess those objectives.

Results

We included seventy-two participants. The results show that study arms were similar at baseline, though at week 4, PSQI scores remained unchanged with dolutegravir/lamivudine/abacavir while patients improved significantly after switching to darunavir/cobicistat/emtricitabine/tenofovir-alafenamide. Similar differences between arms were also observed in HAD and NS changes. At weeks 4 and 8 after all participants switched to darunavir/cobicistat/emtricitabine/tenofovir-alafenamide, we have observed significant improvements in PSQI and HAD scores and in NS.

Conclusion

In patients reporting subclinical sleep disturbances without insomnia, switching from dolutegravir/lamivudine/abacavir to darunavir/cobicistat/emtricitabine/tenofovir-alafenamide was associated with better sleep quality and improvements in mood and NS.

Active Pharmacovigilance Project on the safety profile of Dolutegravir in Brazil

A quantitative descriptive study based on Brazilian Active Pharmacovigilance of Dolutegravir (DTG) Project was performed to describe the adverse drug reactions (ADRs) to DTG reported and to evaluate the noncompleteness of data from DTG active pharmacovigilance in Brazil. ADRs and clinical and individual data were obtained from information from the Pharmacovigilance Questionnaire from April 2017 to August 2019. The reported ADRs were classified using the Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities (MedDRA). In the evaluated period, 249,066 individuals using DTG participated in the active pharmacovigilance of DTG, with 3472 (1.39%) reporting ADRs at least once. A total of 6312 ADRs were reported, of which 57.56% were persistent and 81.46% were not serious according to the individuals' reports. Most of the reported ADRs were gastrointestinal, neurological and psychiatric. ADRs related to neural tube defects and serious neuropsychiatric ADRs have been reported. Completion of more than half of the fields in the Pharmacovigilance Questionnaire was excellent. The frequency of ADR was low in relation to the number of people living with HIV (PLHIV) using DTG in Brazil, which suggests good tolerability and safety of DTG. The DTG active pharmacovigilance database in Brazil showed good data completeness.

3D Spheroids of Human Primary Urine-Derived Stem Cells in the Assessment of Drug-Induced Mitochondrial Toxicity

Mitochondrial toxicity (Mito-Tox) risk has increased due to the administration of several classes of drugs, particularly some life-long antiretroviral drugs for HIV+ individuals. However, no suitable in vitro assays are available to test long-term Mito-Tox (≥4 weeks). The goal of this study is to develop a 3D spheroid system of human primary urine-derived stem cells (USC) for the prediction of drug-induced delayed Mito-Tox. The cytotoxicity and Mito-Tox were assessed in 3D USC spheroids 4 weeks after treatment with antiretroviral drugs: zalcitabine (ddC; 0.1, 1 and 10 µM), tenofovir (TFV; 3, 30 and 300 µM) or Raltegravir (RAL; 2, 20 and 200 µM). Rotenone (RTNN, 10 µM) and 0.1% DMSO served as positive and negative controls. Despite only mild cytotoxicity, ddC significantly inhibited the expression of oxidative phosphorylation enzyme Complexes I, III, and IV; and RAL transiently reduced the level of Complex IV. A significant increase in caspase 3 and ROS/RNS level but a decrease in total ATP were observed in USC treated with ddC, TFV, RAL, and RTNN. Levels of mtDNA content and mitochondrial mass were decreased in ddC but minimally or not in TFV- and RAL-treated spheroids. Thus, 3D USC spheroid using antiretroviral drugs as a model offers an alternative platform to assess drug-induced late Mito-Tox.

INSTI-Based Initial Antiretroviral Therapy in Adults with HIV, the HIV Outpatient Study, 2007-2018

We evaluated treatment duration and viral suppression (VS) outcomes with integrase strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI)-based regimens versus other contemporary regimens among adults in routine HIV care. Eligible participants were seen during January 1, 2007 to June 30, 2018 at nine U.S. HIV clinics, initiated antiretroviral therapy (ART) (baseline date), and had ≥2 clinic visits thereafter. We assessed the probability of remaining on a regimen and achieving HIV RNA <200 copies/mL on initial INSTI versus non-INSTI ART by Kaplan-Meier analyses and their correlates by Cox regression. Among 1,005 patients, 335 (33.3%) were prescribed an INSTI-containing regimen and 670 (66.7%) a non-INSTI regimen, which may have included non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors, protease inhibitors, and other agents. In both groups, most patients were male, nonwhite, and aged <50 years. Comparing the INSTI with non-INSTI group, the median baseline log₁₀ HIV viral load (VL; copies/mL) was 4.6 versus 4.5, and the median CD4⁺ cell count (cells/mm³) was 352 versus 314. In Kaplan-Meier analysis, the estimated probabilities of remaining on initial regimens at 2 and 4 years were 58% and 40% for INSTI and 51% and 33% for non-INSTI group, respectively (log-rank test p = .003). In multivariable models, treatment with an INSTI (vs. non-INSTI) ART was negatively associated with a regimen switch [hazard ratio (HR) 0.67, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.56-0.81, p < .001] and was positively associated with achieving VS (HR 1.52; CI 1.29-1.79, p < .001), both irrespective of baseline VL levels. Initial INSTI-based regimens were associated with longer treatment durations and better VS than non-INSTI regimens. Results support INSTI regimens as the initial therapy in U.S. treatment guidelines.

UGT1A1 regulatory variant with potential effect on efficacy of HIV and cancer drugs commonly prescribed in South Africa

Aim: Despite the high disease burden of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and colorectal cancer (CRC) in South Africa (SA), treatment-relevant pharmacogenetic variants are understudied. Materials & methods: Using publicly available genotype and gene expression data, a bioinformatic pipeline was developed to identify liver expression quantitative trait loci (eQTLs). Results: A novel cis-eQTL, rs28967009, was identified for UGT1A1, which is predicted to upregulate UGT1A1 expression thereby potentially affecting the metabolism of dolutegravir and irinotecan, which are extensively prescribed in SA for HIV and colorectal cancer treatment, respectively. Conclusion: As increased UGT1A1 expression could affect the clinical outcome of dolutegravir and irinotecan treatment by increasing drug clearance, patients with the rs28967009A variant may require increased drug doses to reach therapeutic levels or should be prescribed alternative drugs.

Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate and emtricitabine maintenance strategy in virologically controlled adults with low HIV-1 DNA: 48 week results from a randomized, open-label, non-inferiority trial

OBJECTIVES

Low HIV reservoirs may be associated with viral suppression under a lower number of antiretroviral drugs. We investigated tenofovir disoproxil fumarate/emtricitabine as a maintenance strategy in people living with HIV (PLHIV) with low HIV-DNA.

METHODS

TRULIGHT (NCT02302547) was a multicentre, open-label, randomized trial comparing a simplification to tenofovir disoproxil fumarate/emtricitabine versus a triple regimen continuation (tenofovir disoproxil fumarate/emtricitabine with a third agent, control arm) in virologically suppressed adults with HIV-DNA <2.7 log10 copies/106 PBMCs and no prior virological failure (VF). The primary endpoint (non-inferiority margin 12%) was the percentage of participants with a plasma viral load (pVL) <50 copies/mL in ITT (Snapshot approach) and PP analyses at Week 48 (W48).

RESULTS

Of the 326 participants screened, 223 (68%) were randomized to the tenofovir disoproxil fumarate/emtricitabine arm (n = 113) or control arm (n = 110). At W48, the tenofovir disoproxil fumarate/emtricitabine and control arms maintained a pVL < 50 copies/mL in 100/113 (88.5%) and 100/110 (90.9%) participants, respectively (ITT difference 2.4%, 95% CI -5.9 to 10.7; PP difference 3.4%, 95% CI -4.2 to 11.0). Six VFs occurred in the tenofovir disoproxil fumarate/emtricitabine arm (two with emerging mutations M184V and K65R) versus two in the control arm (ITT difference 3.5%, 95% CI -1.9 to 9.4). All VFs were resuppressed after treatment modification.

CONCLUSIONS

Although non-inferiority was shown, simplification to tenofovir disoproxil fumarate/emtricitabine should not be used for most PLHIV because of a low risk of VF with resistance.

Five-year follow-up of patients enrolled in the NEAT 001/ANRS 143 randomized clinical trial: NEAT 001/ANRS 143 LONG TERM study

BACKGROUND

Few long-term data are available in subjects having initiated ART with an NRTI-sparing regimen.

OBJECTIVES

Outcomes of subjects enrolled in the NEAT 001/ANRS 143 randomized clinical trial (comparing ritonavir-boosted darunavir + raltegravir versus ritonavir-boosted darunavir + tenofovir disoproxil fumarate/emtricitabine) were retrospectively collected, through anonymized electronic case report forms, up to 6 years post-enrolment.

METHODS

The last NEAT 001 visit (Week 96) was conducted in 745/805 randomized subjects (363/401 ritonavir-boosted darunavir + raltegravir and 382/404 ritonavir-boosted darunavir + tenofovir disoproxil fumarate/emtricitabine). Of these, 430 were enrolled in NEAT 001/ANRS 143 LONG TERM (NLT) study (201 raltegravir, 229 tenofovir disoproxil fumarate/emtricitabine), with a median follow-up of 44.4 months.

RESULTS

During NLT follow-up, the proportion of AIDS, non-AIDS events, virological rebound and serious adverse events, discontinuation for virological failure and for adverse events did not differ between groups; discontinuations for virological failure since NEAT 001 inclusion were more frequent in subjects with baseline CD4 <200 cells/mm3 (11.9% versus 5.3%; P = 0.077). At last follow-up, a quarter of subjects (22.2% for ritonavir-boosted darunavir + raltegravir and 29.7% for ritonavir-boosted darunavir + tenofovir disoproxil fumarate/emtricitabine) were still receiving their initial regimen. Integrase inhibitor exposure was not associated with weight gain (P = 0.48), while tenofovir disoproxil fumarate exposure was associated with a trend to higher creatinine increase (P = 0.067).

CONCLUSIONS

After a median of 5.6 years, subjects initiating ritonavir-boosted darunavir + raltegravir or ritonavir-boosted darunavir + tenofovir disoproxil fumarate/emtricitabine experienced few serious clinical adverse events. Most discontinuations were for reasons unrelated to adverse events or virological failure.

Antiretroviral therapy in older people with HIV

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The age of people with HIV) continues to rise, and yet older people have tended to be under-represented or excluded from premarketing studies of antiretroviral therapy (ART). In this review, we highlight special considerations for the use of ART in older people with HIV, with a focus on toxicities associated with specific antiretroviral agents or drug classes as well as key research questions moving forward.

RECENT FINDINGS

Like all people with HIV, older people with HIV should be started on ART as soon as possible, regardless of CD4 count, and with a regimen that includes an integrase strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI) and two nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors. Important toxicities to consider when choosing an ART regimen include bone and renal effects related to tenofovir, weight gain related to INSTIs and tenofovir alafenamide, neurocognitive and neuropsychiatric toxicities related to efavirenz, and increased cardiovascular risk associated with abacavir and boosted protease inhibitors. With the ongoing importance of INSTIs as a component of preferred ART regimens, further characterization of INSTI-related weight gain is a critical current research priority in understanding ART toxicity.

SUMMARY

There are multiple potential toxicities of ART to consider when selecting a regimen for older people. Specific agents or drug classes have been implicated in adverse bone or renal effects, weight gain, neuropsychiatric and neurocognitive effects, and cardiovascular risk.

Efficacy and safety of co-formulated elvitegravir/cobicistat/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide in HIV-positive patients: real-world data

OBJECTIVES

Elvitegravir/cobicistat/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide (E/C/F/TAF) is a recommended and widely used regimen for HIV infection. In this study, we aimed to determine the efficacy and safety of E/C/F/TAF in people living with HIV (PLWH), who are either treatment-naïve or switched from any tenofovir disoproxil fumarate-containing regimen. For switched patients, we aimed to determine the impact of switching from tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) to TAF on lipid profile and kidney functions.

METHODS

ACTHIV-IST Study Group produced a database, and five dedicated HIV centres in Istanbul entered data of PLWH who switched from any TDF-containing regimen to E/C/F/TAF and treatment-naïve patients who were initiated with the E/C/F/TAF regimen between January 2017 and December 2019. Clinical findings, viral parameters, lipid studies, renal function tests, adverse events and adherence to the treatment were recorded in this prospective observational study.

RESULTS

The study included a total of 614 switched and treatment-naïve patients. Of 430 treatment-experienced patients, 89% (382) were men, and the mean age was 42 ± 12 years. Among them, 47% (181/382) self-identified as men who have sex with men (MSM). The median duration of HIV diagnosis was 54 ± 29 months. The median duration of E/C/F/TAF use was 20 ± 36 months and that of previous treatment was 23 ± 18 months. HIV-RNA was undetectable at baseline and month 12 in 84.1% (360/428) and 86.1% (328/381) of patients, respectively (p > 0.05). Mean CD4 counts were 708 ± 287 cells/µL and 802 ± 305 cells/µL at baseline and month 12, respectively (p < 0.001). Serum creatinine levels remained stable during the treatment period. Mean total cholesterol levels at baseline and month 12 were 172 and 211 mg/dL (p < 0.01), LDL-cholesterol 104 and 138 mg/dL (p < 0.01), HDL-cholesterol 39 and 49 mg/dL (p < 0.01) and triglycerides 134 and 174 mg/dL (p < 0.01), respectively. The treatment was generally well tolerated. Eight patients discontinued the therapy (drug interaction: 3; lost to follow-up: 1; pregnancy: 1; pulmonary tuberculosis: 1; side effect: 1; patient's decision: 1). Of 184 treatment-naïve patients, 88% (162) were men, and the mean age was 36.5± 12 years. Among them, 50% (81/162) self-identified as MSM. The mean duration of HIV infection was 21.6 ± 17.1 months. The mean duration of E/C/F/TAF use was 16 ± 4 months. HIV-RNA was undetectable at baseline and month 12 in 1% and 89.1% of patients, respectively. Mean CD4 counts at baseline and month 12 were 469 ± 223 cells/µL and 740 ± 298 cells/µL, respectively. During the treatment period, creatinine levels remained stable. Total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, triglyceride and also HDL-cholesterol levels increased. Mean total cholesterol levels at baseline and month 12 were 167 and 211 mg/dL (p < 0.01), LDL-cholesterol 108 and 143 mg/dL (p < 0.01), HDL-cholesterol 41 and 47 mg/dL (p < 0.01) and triglycerides 136 and 172 mg/dL, respectively (p < 0.01). The treatment was generally well tolerated. Three patients discontinued the therapy (drug interaction: 1; non-responder: 1; patient's decision: 1).

CONCLUSION

Starting with or switching to E/C/F/TAF in PLWH effectively suppresses HIV infection, is associated with an increase in CD4 cell count and is well tolerated in a real-life setting. Renal functions remained stable during the treatment. E/C/F/TAF use was associated with an increase in LDL-cholesterol and triglyceride levels along with an increase in HDL-cholesterol levels.

Randomized Trial Evaluating the Neurotoxicity of Dolutegravir/Abacavir/Lamivudine and Its Reversibility After Switching to Elvitegravir/Cobicistat/Emtricitabine/Tenofovir Alafenamide: GESIDA 9016

Background

Despite evidence shown of dolutegravir (DTG)-related neurotoxicity, which may be more common when combined with abacavir (ABC), its reversibility has not been explored in a clinical trial.

Methods

We conducted a randomized, multicenter, open-label, pilot trial to evaluate the reversibility of patient-reported neuropsychiatric symptoms, developed or worsened on DTG/ABC/lamivudine (DTG/ABC/3TC), in virologically suppressed patients switched to cobicistat-boosted-elvitegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir-alafenamide (EVG/COBI/FTC/TAF). Participants were randomized to immediate switch (baseline) or to defer switch (week 4), and then all completed 24 weeks of follow up on EVG/COBI/FTC/TAF. At each visit, participants completed Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and Hospital Anxiety and Depression (HAD) scales and were interviewed about 11 neuropsychiatric symptoms potentially related with DTG through a questionnaire. At baseline and at the end of follow up, they also performed neurocognitive testing. Our primary objective was to compare changes in neuropsychiatric symptoms and PSQI and HAD scales between arms at week 4. Secondary objectives were to evaluate changes in neuropsychiatric symptoms and PSQI and HAD scales at weeks 4, 12, and 24 after switching to EVG/COBI/FTC/TAF and in neurocognitive performance and magnetic resonance imaging biomarkers at end of follow up.

Results

Thirty-eight participants were included. Study arms were similar at baseline. At week 4, neuropsychiatric symptoms and PSQI and HAD scores remained unchanged in participants receiving DTG/ABC/3TC and improved significantly in participants receiving EVG/COBI/FTC/TAF. These significant improvements were also observed at weeks 4, 12, and 24 after all participants switched to EVG/COBI/FTC/TAF. In addition, global neurocognitive performance improved (NPZ-7) after switching to EVG/COBI/FTC/TAF.

Conclusions

Neuropsychiatric symptoms in patients on DTG/ABC/3TC could resolve or improve after switching to EVG/COBI/FTC/TAF.

HIV-1 Integrase Inhibitors: A Comparative Review of Efficacy and Safety

The newest class of antiretrovirals for all persons living with HIV are the integrase strand transfer inhibitors (INSTIs). Since 2007, five INSTIs have been introduced: raltegravir, elvitegravir, dolutegravir, bictegravir, and cabotegravir. The INSTIs have favorable pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties, which contribute to both their effectiveness and their ease of use. With the exception of cabotegravir, each INSTI is US Food and Drug Administration approved for treatment-naïve individuals initiating antiretroviral therapy. All of the INSTIs, except raltegravir, are approved for antiretroviral treatment simplification for virologically suppressed patients without INSTI resistance. Data also support the use of dolutegravir and raltegravir in individuals with antiretroviral resistance as part of an optimized antiretroviral regimen. INSTIs are generally well tolerated by people living with HIV compared with older classes of antiretrovirals, but emerging data suggest that some INSTIs contribute to weight gain. Due to their efficacy, safety, and ease of use, HIV treatment guidelines recommend oral INSTIs as preferred components of antiretroviral therapy for individuals initiating therapy. The newest INSTI, cabotegravir, represents an alternative to oral administration of life-long antiretroviral therapy with the availability of a long-acting injectable formulation. This review summarizes the current use of INSTIs in adults living with HIV, highlighting the similarities and differences within the class related to pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, safety, dosing, and administration that contribute to their role in modern antiretroviral therapy.

Bone mineral density, kidney function, weight gain and insulin resistance in women who switch from TDF/FTC/NNRTI to ABC/3TC/DTG

OBJECTIVES

Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) is associated with reduced bone mineral density (BMD). We evaluated changes in BMD in women who switched from TDF, emtricitabine and a nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (TDF/FTC/NNRTI) to abacavir, lamivudine and dolutegravir (ABC/3TC/DTG).

METHODS

We conducted a randomized controlled trial in which women aged ≥40 years were randomized 1:2 to continue TDF/FTC/NNRTI or switch to ABC/3TC/DTG. The primary endpoint was change in total hip BMD measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry at week 48. Secondary endpoints were changes in BMD of the lumbar spine and femoral neck and markers of bone turnover and kidney function up to week 48. We conducted exploratory analyses of weight gain, insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome. Primary and secondary endpoints were analysed by linear regression, with multiple imputation for missing time points.

RESULTS

In all, 91 women [mean age = 50.4 (standard deviation [SD] = 6.6) years, median CD4 cell count = 600 (interquartile range: 479-800) cells/µL] were randomized. Women who switched to ABC/3TC/DTG maintained viral suppression and experienced improvements in total hip BMD (mean adjusted difference = 1%, P = 0.027) and lumbar spine BMD (3%, P = 0.002), with no change in specific markers of bone turnover or renal tubular function. Although participants in the ABC/3TC/DTG arm gained more weight (1.8 kg, P = 0.046), the switch strategy was not associated with reduced insulin sensitivity or new-onset metabolic syndrome.

CONCLUSIONS

Switching from TDF/FTC/NNRTI to ABC/3TC/DTG resulted in improved BMD. Although weight gain was common in women who switched from TDF/FTC/NNRTI to ABC/3TC/DTG, we did not detect adverse effects on glucose homeostasis. Larger studies need to confirm these findings.

Nothing is perfect: the safety issues of integrase inhibitor regimens

INTRODUCTION

Since the administration of the first integrase strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI) in 2007, most international treatment guidelines consider INSTI-based regimens to be the preferred antiretroviral combinations for HIV-1-infected patients as a result of their safety and efficacy profile. INSTIs are generally well tolerated, and reported rates of discontinuation due to drug-related adverse events (AEs) have been very low to date. However, recent reports indicate that physicians should be aware of potential INSTI-related AEs to ensure good clinical practice.

AREAS COVERED

The authors performed a critical review of the safety issues affecting INSTIs based on published evidence from original studies and new data from researchers.

EXPERT OPINION

Almost all antiretroviral drugs, including INSTIs, are associated with undesirable AEs. Dolutegravir in particular has been associated with more frequent AEs such as neuropsychiatric disorders, neural tube defect in newborns, and weight gain. Data with bictegravir in routine practice are still scarce. While this association and its clinical relevance are not clear, physicians should be alert to the appearance of the aforementioned AEs and others in the future. In the meantime, INSTIs continue to be the preferred option in guidelines on antiretroviral therapy.

Neuropsychiatric adverse effects of dolutegravir in real-life clinical practice

INTRODUCTION

Integrase inhibitors and especially dolutegravir (DTG) are placed as a first-line antiretroviral treatment for their efficacy and safety. Although in the pivotal trials the rate of adverse effects (AEs) was low (2-3%), in real-life studies it appears to be higher, especially neuropsychiatric AEs. The objective is to determine the percentage of AEs and discontinuation of DTG in our site and the relationship with the psychiatric background.

METHODS

Retrospective descriptive study of patients starting DTG from 2015 to 2017. Discontinuation of treatment, AEs and previous psychiatric pathology were recorded. Follow-up is carried out since the beginning of the treatment, and hospitalizations and emergency room and primary care visits were registered. The study was authorized by the Ethics Committee for Clinical Research of Aragon.

RESULTS

Two hundred and eighty-three patients were included, between 11 and 87 years old, 70% male. 21% were naive. 24% of the patients discontinued treatment with DTG, 10% due to AEs. Neuropsychiatric AEs were detected in 5%. This group of patients had a more frequent previous psychiatric history (62 vs. 41%; P=.002) than the ongoing treatment group and they needed more visits to primary care (18.8 vs. 8.4%; P=.016) and emergency room (8,7 vs. 3.3%; P=.061).

CONCLUSION

Patients who discontinued treatment with DTG had more psychiatric history. Although more studies are required, it is necessary to assess this background before starting treatment with integrase inhibitors. Symptoms such as anxiety, insomnia or depression can be DTG AEs more frequently than expected. Being identified by primary care and emergency physicians could avoid the unnecessary prescription of other medications.

Effectiveness, Safety, and Costs of Dolutegravir/Abacavir/Lamivudine Single-Tablet Regimen in a Real-Life Cohort of HIV-1 Adult Infected Patients

Background: Real-life data on single-tablet regimen (STR) dolutegravir/abacavir/lamivudine (DTG/ABC/3TC) is scarce, and concerns about DTG neuropsychiatric adverse events (NP-AEs) have recently arisen. Objective: To explore the effectiveness and safety, in particular NP-AEs, of DTG/ABC/3TC in a cohort of HIV-1 adult infected patients. Pill burden, adherence to this STR, and the impact of switching on costs were also evaluated. Methods: This was an observational, retrospective study. The study population included antiretroviral therapy (ART)-naive and treatment-experienced (TE) patients who started DTG/ABC/3TC between February 1, 2016, and October 31, 2016. Effectiveness and safety were analyzed at week 48 (W48) by intention-to-treat analysis. The Cox regression model was used to investigate predictors of DTG/ABC/3TC discontinuation. Results: A total of 253 patients were included (44 ART naïve, 209 TE). At W48, the proportion of patients with virological suppression was 72.7% (95% CI = 58.4-87.0) in ART-naive patients, 85.6% (95% CI = 80.3-90.9) in previously suppressed TE patients, and 86.4% (95% CI = 65.1-97.1) in previously not suppressed TE patients. The rate of protocol-defined virological failure was 4.3%. The incidence of AEs was higher in the subgroup of ART-naive patients (56.1% vs 39.0%), with a rate of interruptions for this reason of 13.6% and 7.6%, respectively. The incidence of NP-AEs was 20.6%, with 3.9% of patients requiring discontinuation. Patients who had switched from a raltegravir-containing regimen discontinued DTG/ABC/3TC because of AEs more frequently (relative risk = 2.83; 95% CI = 1.04-7.72; P = 0.041) in the multivariate analysis. After switching to DTG/ABC/3TC, the median pill burden was reduced from 3 to 1 and the proportion of patients with an adherence <90%, from 20.1% to 12.0%. The annual per-patient ART costs increased by €48 (0.6% increase). Conclusion and Relevance: DTG/ABC/3TC is an effective strategy as first-line and switching ART. Our data suggest a worse tolerance in ART-naive patients, although the rate of discontinuation resulting from NP-AEs was relatively low. In the short-term, the adherence was slightly improved without significant changes in costs.

Update on Adverse Effects of HIV Integrase Inhibitors

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The goal of this paper is to provide an up-to-date review of adverse events related to the class of integrase strand transfer inhibitors (INSTIs), which became the class of choice in few years. We sought answers specifically to issues pertaining to neuropsychiatric adverse events, as well as weight gain, which were the two most important categories of adverse events raised in recent studies based on real-life experience. The primary focus of this paper is on adults with a brief summary on pregnant women and children/adolescents.

RECENT FINDINGS

Dolutegravir (DTG) bears the heaviest burden of neuropsychiatric side effects. Weight gain was reported with all INSTIs, although there are methodological caveats in the analyses and the findings need to be interpreted with caution.Moreover, due to recent findings on neural tube defects in infants exposed to dolutegravir during their peri-conception period, its use is not recommended for women of childbearing age without proper birth control method, while raltegravir remains the only drug which may be prescribed without caution. Given the importance of cognitive and metabolic co-morbidities in people living with HIV in regard to their quality of life, future research needs to focus on long-term effects of INSTIs in relation to these adverse events. Pharmacogenetics seems to be a promising tool. Safety during pregnancy is also another important issue to further clarify.

SUMMARY

INSTIs are a generally well-tolerated class of antiretrovirals (ARV), and has a higher antiviral potency compared to other classes of ARV.Clinicians and patients need however to be aware of some red flags when starting with and monitoring patients on INSTIs.All INSTIs can lead to mild increases in creatinine levels, usually without clinical significance, but caution is needed in patients with low eGFR (<30ml/min), when using other nephrotoxic drugs, such as as tenofovir disoproxil.Neuro-psychiatric (NP) effects are to be monitored with INSTIs, especially with DTG (though reports are at times contradictory); clinicians might want to avoid DTG for patients with history of severe NP symptoms, until clarity is provided.Weight gain was reported with all INSTIs, especially with DTG, with possible differential effects according to sex and ethnicity (female and non-white patients being at increased risk). This is worrying since patients from African descent are at higher risk of cardio-vascular events and increased body mass index (BMI) can cause further increase metabolic risk. There is possibly an additional effect of tenofovir alafenamide (TAF) on weight increase.Discrepancies between clinical trials - with low rates of adverse events - and reports from real-life settings might be due partly to under-representation of some groups of patients in clinical trials, and/or the short duration of follow-up, since some adverse effects may only occur after prolonged exposure.Preliminary data on safety of bictegravir (BIC), from clinical trials and non-trial settings, are very reassuring and seem to show lower rates of adverse events compared to DTG.Elvitegravir/cobicistat (EVG/cobi) need to be used with caution in patients with other co-morbidities given potential for polypharmacy, as it is the case for aging patients, because of the high potential of drug-drug interactions due to effects of the cobicistat booster.We are awaiting the release of cabotegravir (CAB), which could represent a good option for patients struggling with adherence, despite injection site reactions.Pharmacogenetics is a promising way to explore adverse effects occurrence in the INSTI class.

The impact of integrase inhibitor-based regimens on markers of inflammation among HIV naïve patients

The use of combination anti-retroviral therapy (cART) correlates with longer and healthier life and with nearly normal life expectancy in people living with HIV. However, cART does not completely restore health. Chronic immune activation and inflammation persist in treated patients and have been described as predictors for clinical events and mortality in HIV-infected patients. Limited information is available on the impact of the various cART regimens on inflammation/immunoactivation. The aim of this work was to explore the impact of elvitegravir, dolutegravir, raltegravir (integrase strand transfer inhibitors, INSTIs) and atazanavir (protease inhibitor, PI) on several soluble markers of immune activation and inflammation during the first year of effective combination anti-retroviral therapy (cART). We conducted an observational retrospective cohort study in HIV-infected cART-naïve patients who initiated an INSTI or atazanavir regimen between March 2015 and February 2016 and a serum sample was available at baseline, 6 and 12 months after initiation. We compared the trend of D-Dimer, TNF- α, IL-2, IL-6, IL-7, IL-10, CCL4/MIP1-β, CCL5/RANTES, s-CD14, s-CD163, hs-CRP levels among the 4 arms of treatment. Percentage of variation from baseline was also measured for all markers. A total of 36 patients were included. We observed heterogeneous modifications in inflammation markers among arms. In particular, we noted that EVG have significant negative effect on s-CD14, hs-CRP, IL-6 and D-Dimer in respect to other INSTIs and this different effect occurs mainly during the first 6 months of cART. IL-7 values increased in the three arms with INSTIs (significantly only in EGV, 159.8%, p = 0.0003) and decreased significantly in patients on PI (-48.96%; p = 0.04) over the period. In conclusion, our results provide further data on changes of inflammatory marker levels, especially for the new INSTIs. Our data show that among INSTIs, EVG seems to have a worse impact on inflammation.

A 24-week pilot study of dual maintenance therapy with raltegravir and lamivudine

BACKGROUND

There is an increasing interest in two-drug regimens. We hypothesized that maintenance therapy with raltegravir and lamivudine would keep HIV-1 suppressed and be well tolerated.

METHODS

Virally suppressed HIV-1-infected adults without previous viral failures or known resistance mutations to integrase inhibitors or 3TC/FTC or chronic hepatitis B were randomized 2 : 1 to switch to fixed-dose combination 150 mg lamivudine/300 mg raltegravir twice daily or to continue therapy. Primary outcome was the proportion of patients free of therapeutic failure (defined as viral failure, change in treatment for any reason, consent withdrawal, loss to follow-up or death) at week 24. Secondary outcomes were changes in laboratory, body composition, sleep quality, adherence, and adverse effects.

RESULTS

There were 75 patients included: men 78%; median age 50 years; median CD4 622/μl. At week 24, 7 (9%) patients had therapeutic failure: raltegravir and lamivudine 2 (4%) vs. control 5 (20%). The difference in proportions of therapeutic failures raltegravir and lamivudine minus control was -0.159 (95% confidence interval: -0.353 to -0.012). There was a trend to more weight gain with raltegravir and lamivudine, but no significant changes in other secondary outcomes. Sixty-four percent of patients in each arm had at least one adverse effect. Two (6%) patients in control arm and 4 (7%) patients in raltegravir and lamivudine arm had severe adverse effects.

CONCLUSION

This pilot study suggests that switching to raltegravir along with lamivudine in patients with viral suppression maintains efficacy and is well tolerated. A larger study of longer duration is required to confirm these findings.

Dolutegravir plus Two Different Prodrugs of Tenofovir to Treat HIV

BACKGROUND

Two drugs under consideration for inclusion in antiretroviral therapy (ART) regimens for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection are dolutegravir (DTG) and tenofovir alafenamide fumarate (TAF). There are limited data on their use in low- and middle-income countries.

METHODS

We conducted a 96-week, phase 3, investigator-led, open-label, randomized trial in South Africa, in which we compared a triple-therapy combination of emtricitabine (FTC) and DTG plus either of two tenofovir prodrugs - TAF (TAF-based group) or tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) (TDF-based group) - against the local standard-of-care regimen of TDF-FTC-efavirenz (standard-care group). Inclusion criteria included an age of 12 years or older, no receipt of ART in the previous 6 months, a creatinine clearance of more than 60 ml per minute (>80 ml per minute in patients younger than 19 years of age), and an HIV type 1 (HIV-1) RNA level of 500 copies or more per milliliter. The primary end point was the percentage of patients with a 48-week HIV-1 RNA level of less than 50 copies per milliliter (as determined with the Snapshot algorithm from the Food and Drug Administration; noninferiority margin, -10 percentage points). We report the primary (48-week) efficacy and safety data.

RESULTS

A total of 1053 patients underwent randomization from February 2017 through May 2018. More than 99% of the patients were black, and 59% were female. The mean age was 32 years, and the mean CD4 count was 337 cells per cubic millimeter. At week 48, the percentage of patients with an HIV-1 RNA level of less than 50 copies per milliliter was 84% in the TAF-based group, 85% in the TDF-based group, and 79% in the standard-care group, findings that indicate that the DTG-containing regimens were noninferior to the standard-care regimen. The number of patients who discontinued the trial regimen was higher in the standard-care group than in the other two groups. In the per-protocol population, the standard-care regimen had equivalent potency to the other two regimens. The TAF-based regimen had less effect on bone density and renal function than the other regimens. Weight increase (both lean and fat mass) was greatest in the TAF-based group and among female patients (mean increase, 6.4 kg in the TAF-based group, 3.2 kg in the TDF-based group, and 1.7 kg in the standard-care group). No resistance to integrase inhibitors was identified in patients receiving the DTG-containing regimens.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment with DTG combined with either of two tenofovir prodrugs (TAF and TDF) showed noninferior efficacy to treatment with the standard-care regimen. There was significantly more weight gain with the DTG-containing regimens, especially in combination with TAF, than with the standard-care regimen. (ADVANCE ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT03122262.).

Safety and efficacy of elvitegravir, dolutegravir, and raltegravir in a real-world cohort of treatment-naïve and -experienced patients

The aim of this retrospective cohort study was to compare safety, efficacy and rates and reasons of discontinuation of the 3 currently approved integrase strand transfer inhibitors (INSTIs) elvitegravir (EVG), dolutegravir (DTG), and raltegravir (RAL) in HIV-infected treatment-naïve and -experienced patients in a real-world cohort. One hundred four treatment-naïve patients were prescribed an INSTI-based combined antiretroviral therapy (cART)-regimen (first-line group) and 219 patients were switched to an INSTI-based cART-regimen from another treatment regimen (switch group) at our institution between May 2007 and December 2014. Twelve months after initiation of treatment, 92% of patients in the first-line group (EVG: 96%, n = 22/23; DTG: 92%, n = 34/37; RAL: 90%, n = 28/31) and 88% of patients in the switch group (EVG: 94%, n = 32/34; DTG: 90%, n = 69/77; RAL: 85%, n = 67/79) showed full virological suppression (viral load <50 copies/mL). Side effects of any kind occurred in 12% (n = 12/104) of patients in the first-line group, and 10% (n = 21/219) of patients in the switch group. In the switch group neuropsychiatric side effects (depression, vertigo, and sleep disturbances) occurred more frequently in patients treated with DTG (11%, n = 10) compared to the 2 other INSTI-based cART-regimen (EVG: 2%, n = 1; RAL: 1%, n = 1). Side effects only rarely led to discontinuation of treatment (first-line-group: 2%, n = 2/104; switch-group: 1%, n = 3/219). In this real-world setting, INSTI-based ART-regimens were highly efficacious with no significant differences between any of the 3 INSTIs. Overall, side effects were only rarely observed and generally mild in all subgroups. In light of a slightly higher incidence of vertigo and sleep disturbances in patients switched to DTG, awareness of the potential onset of psychiatric symptoms is warranted during follow-up in those patients.

Evaluating cabotegravir/rilpivirine long-acting, injectable in the treatment of HIV infection: emerging data and therapeutic potential

Cabotegravir and rilpivirine long-acting injectable antiretroviral therapy for the treatment of HIV-1 infection brings promise of a new mode of delivery and potential solutions to some problems of oral therapy, but also new challenges and unanswered questions. Adding to the increasing body of evidence for newer two-drug combinations, phase II and phase III trial data to date demonstrate cabotegravir and rilpivirine combination injectable therapy to be non-inferior to selected oral triple-therapy alternatives. Most importantly, this therapy is reported to be acceptable to individuals taking the 4-weekly or 8-weekly injections, despite frequent injection-site reactions. Key outstanding questions include management of missed or delayed dosing, drug interactions and management of virological failure, as well as the efficacy of cabotegravir and rilpivirine in all HIV-1 subtypes. We describe clinical evidence to date and efficacy and challenges in selected populations, including women; those with prior virological failure; individuals with a history of difficulty adhering to oral therapy and individuals with co-infections. We await real-world data and longer-term evidence while moving forward to this new era of antiretroviral therapy.

Dolutegravir plus rilpivirine as dual regimen in virologically suppressed HIV-1 infected patients in a clinical setting

Objectives: There are scarce data on the combination of dolutegravir (DTG) plus rilpivirine (RPV) in the real world, including patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) coinfection, toxicity or previous failure, or at risk for severe drug-drug interactions (DDIs). Methods: Prospective cohort study of virologically suppressed HIV-1 infected patients, without resistance to DTG or RPV, switched to this dual regimen because of toxicity or risk of DDIs (NCT02491242). Results: Overall, 102 patients (mean age 54 years, 28% women) were included. Fifty-seven were coinfected with HCV (fibrosis grade 4 in 27 cases, 1 liver transplantation). Seven patients had chronic kidney disease (1 renal transplantation). At week 48, only 1 virologic failure occurred (<1%), and 6 patients (6%) left the regimen (3 with central nervous system adverse events, 1 each due to pregnancy, metformin interaction, and lost to follow up). Thus, the overall treatment success rates were 93% (95% CI, 88%-98%; ITT-e, snapshot analysis) and 96% (95% CI, 92%-99%; per protocol analysis). The CD4/CD8 ratio increased slightly (median, +0.03). Triglycerides levels improved significantly (-18.8%, p < 0.01). The creatinine-based estimated glomerular filtration rate decreased by a mean of -8.4 ml/min/1.73 m², but tubular renal parameters improved. A paired dual X-ray absorptiometry scan showed a mild improvement in spine (mean, +1.15%; -0.57 to +3.3%) and in femoral neck bone mineral density (mean, +0.4%; -3.3% to +2.57%). Conclusions: In the clinical setting, switching to the combination of DTG plus rilpivirine in virologically suppressed HIV-1 patients is effective and safe, and improves lipid, renal and bone evolution.

Risks and benefits of dolutegravir-based antiretroviral drug regimens in sub-Saharan Africa: a modelling study

BACKGROUND

The integrase inhibitor dolutegravir could have a major role in future antiretroviral therapy (ART) regimens in sub-Saharan Africa because of its high potency and barrier to resistance, good tolerability, and low cost, but there is uncertainty over appropriate policies for use relating to the potential for drug resistance spread and a possible increased risk of neural tube defects in infants if used in women at the time of conception. We used an existing individual-based model of HIV transmission, progression, and the effect of ART with the aim of informing policy makers on approaches to the use of dolutegravir that are likely to lead to the highest population health gains.

METHODS

We used an existing individual-based model of HIV transmission and progression in adults, which takes into account the effects of drug resistance and differential drug potency in determining viral suppression and clinical outcomes to compare predicted outcomes of alternative ART regimen policies. We calculated disability adjusted life-years (DALYs) for each policy, assuming that a woman having a child with a neural tube defect incurs an extra DALY per year for the remainder of the time horizon and accounting for mother-to-child transmission. We used a 20 year time horizon, a 3% discount rate, and a cost-effectiveness threshold of US$500 per DALY averted.

FINDINGS

The greatest number of DALYs is predicted to be averted with use of a policy in which tenofovir, lamivudine, and dolutegravir is used in all people on ART, including switching to tenofovir, lamivudine, and dolutegravir in those currently on ART, regardless of current viral load suppression and intention to have (more) children. This result was consistent in several sensitivity analyses. We predict that this policy would be cost-saving.

INTERPRETATION

Using a standard DALY framework to compare health outcomes from a public health perspective, the benefits of transition to tenofovir, lamivudine, and dolutegravir for all substantially outweighed the risks.

FUNDING

Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.