Recent Abacavir Use Increases Risk of Type 1 and Type 2 Myocardial Infarctions Among Adults With HIV

Antiretroviral Therapy and Cardiovascular Risk in People With HIV in the United States-An Updated Analysis

Background

Several antiretroviral therapy (ART) medications have been associated with increased cardiovascular risk, but less is known about the safety of modern ART. We sought to compare the risk of major adverse cardiac events (MACEs) among different ART regimens.

Methods

Using insurance claims databases from 2008 to 2020, we identified adults aged <65 years who newly initiated ART. We compared non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI)-based regimens to protease inhibitors (PI)- and integrase inhibitors (INSTI)-based regimens. We used propensity score-weighted Kaplan-Meier functions to estimate the 6, 12, 18, 24, 36, and 48 months' risk and risk differences (RD) of MACE.

Results

Among 37 935 ART initiators (median age, 40 years; 23% female; 26% Medicaid-insured), 45% started INSTI-, 16% PI-, and 39% NNRTI-based regimens. MACE occurred in 418 individuals (1.1%) within 48 months after ART initiation. Compared to NNRTI initiators, the risk of MACE was higher at 12 months (RD, 0.50; 95% CI, 0.14-0.99), 18 months (RD, 0.53; 95% CI, 0.11-1.06), and 24 months (RD, 0.62; 95% CI, 0.04-1.29) for PI initiators, and at 12 (RD, 0.20; 95% CI, 0.03-0.37) and 18 months (RD, 0.31; 95% CI, 0.06-0.54) for INSTI initiators; the precision of estimates was limited for longer duration of follow-up.

Conclusions

Among ART initiators, PI-based and INSTI-based regimens were associated with higher short-term risk of MACE compared to NNRTI-based regimens. The pattern of association between INSTIs and PIs with excess risk of MACE was similar.

Cardiovascular Risk Estimation Is Suboptimal in People With HIV

BACKGROUND

Established cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk prediction functions may not accurately predict CVD risk in people with HIV. We assessed the performance of 3 CVD risk prediction functions in 2 HIV cohorts.

METHODS AND RESULTS

CVD risk scores were calculated in the Mass General Brigham and Kaiser Permanente Northern California HIV cohorts, using the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association atherosclerotic CVD function, the FHS (Framingham Heart Study) hard coronary heart disease function and the Framingham Heart Study hard CVD function. Outcomes were myocardial infarction or coronary death for FHS hard coronary heart disease function; and myocardial infarction, stroke, or coronary death for American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association and FHS hard CVD function. We calculated regression coefficients and assessed discrimination and calibration by sex; predicted to observed risk of outcome was also compared. In the combined cohort of 9412, 158 (1.7%) had a coronary heart disease event, and 309 (3.3%) had a CVD event. Among women, CVD risk was generally underestimated by all 3 risk functions. Among men, CVD risk was underestimated by the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association and FHS hard CVD function, but overestimated by the FHS hard coronary heart disease function. Calibration was poor for women using the FHS hard CVD function and for men using all functions. Discrimination in all functions was good for women (c-statistics ranging from 0.78 to 0.90) and moderate for men (c-statistics ranging from 0.71 to 0.72).

CONCLUSIONS

Established CVD risk prediction functions generally underestimate risk in people with HIV. Differences in model performance by sex underscore the need for both HIV-specific and sex-specific functions. Development of CVD risk prediction models tailored to HIV will enhance care for aging people with HIV.

Association of Coronary Wall Thickening and Diminished Diastolic Function in Asymptomatic, Low Cardiovascular Disease-Risk Persons Living with HIV

Purpose To assess early subclinical coronary artery disease (CAD) burden and its relation to myocardial function in asymptomatic persons living with HIV (PLWH) who are at low risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Materials and Methods In this prospective, HIPAA-compliant study (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01656564 and NCT01399385) conducted from April 2010 to May 2013, 74 adult PLWH without known CVD and 25 matched healthy controls underwent coronary MRI to measure coronary vessel wall thickness (VWT) and echocardiography to assess left ventricular function. Univariable and multivariable linear regression analyses were used to evaluate statistical associations. Results For PLWH, the mean age was 49 years ± 11 (SD), and the median Framingham risk score was 3.2 (IQR, 0.5-6.6); for matched healthy controls, the mean age was 46 years ± 8 and Framingham risk score was 2.3 (IQR, 0.6-6.1). PLWH demonstrated significantly greater coronary artery VWT than did controls (1.47 mm ± 0.22 vs 1.34 mm ± 0.18; P = .006) and a higher left ventricular mass index (LVMI) (77 ± 16 vs 70 ± 13; P = .04). Compared with controls, PLWH showed altered association between coronary artery VWT and both E/A (ratio of left ventricular-filling peak blood flow velocity in early diastole [E wave] to that in late diastole [A wave]) (P = .03) and LVMI (P = .04). In the PLWH subgroup analysis, coronary artery VWT increase was associated with lower E/A (P < .001) and higher LVMI (P = .03), indicating restricted diastolic function. In addition, didanosine exposure was associated with increased coronary artery VWT and decreased E/A ratio. Conclusion Asymptomatic low-CVD-risk PLWH demonstrated increased coronary artery VWT in association with impaired diastolic function, which may be amenable to follow-up studies of coronary pathogenesis to identify potential effects on the myocardium and risk modification strategies. Keywords: Coronary Vessel Wall Thickness, Diastolic Function, HIV, MRI, Echocardiography, Atherosclerosis Clinical trial registration nos. NCT01656564 and NCT01399385 Supplemental material is available for this article. © RSNA, 2024.

Evolving mechanisms and presentations of cardiovascular disease in people with HIV: implications for management

People with HIV (PWH) are at elevated risk for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), including myocardial infarction, heart failure, and sudden cardiac death, among other CVD manifestations. Chronic immune dysregulation resulting in persistent inflammation is common among PWH, particularly those with sustained viremia and impaired CD4+ T cell recovery. This inflammatory milieu is a major contributor to CVDs among PWH, in concert with common comorbidities (such as dyslipidemia and smoking) and, to a lesser extent, off-target effects of antiretroviral therapy. In this review, we discuss the clinical and mechanistic evidence surrounding heightened CVD risks among PWH, implications for specific CVD manifestations, and practical guidance for management in the setting of evolving data.

Prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease in HIV: practical insights in an evolving field

People with HIV (PWH) are at higher risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD) than people without HIV. As antiretroviral therapy (ART) and the natural history of HIV have evolved, so have the pathogenesis and manifestations of HIV-associated CVD. Epidemiologic data from several cohorts demonstrate that PWH have an approximately 50% higher risk than people without HIV for CVD, including, but not limited to, myocardial infarction and heart failure. This elevated CVD risk is not universal among PWH; for instance, the risk is higher among individuals with a history of sustained unsuppressed viremia, diminished CD4+ cell count recovery, or hepatitis C virus coinfection. Specific antiretroviral drugs may also associate differently with CVD risk. Regarding management, the recent REPRIEVE (Randomized Trial to Prevent Vascular Events in HIV) study results demonstrated a 35% relative risk reduction in atherosclerotic CVD for PWH at low to moderate predicted risk taking pitavastatin; this is a larger reduction than for comparable moderate-intensity statins in the general population. Whether these higher-than-expected reductions in CVD risk among PWH also extend to higher-intensity statins and into secondary prevention settings for people with existing CVD merits further study. Nonlipid approaches to CVD risk reduction in PWH-ranging from antithrombotic therapy to inflammation-modulating therapy-remain under active investigation. Results of these studies will provide essential information to further guide CVD management in PWH.

HIV infection

The AIDS epidemic has been a global public health issue for more than 40 years and has resulted in ~40 million deaths. AIDS is caused by the retrovirus, HIV-1, which is transmitted via body fluids and secretions. After infection, the virus invades host cells by attaching to CD4 receptors and thereafter one of two major chemokine coreceptors, CCR5 or CXCR4, destroying the host cell, most often a T lymphocyte, as it replicates. If unchecked this can lead to an immune-deficient state and demise over a period of ~2-10 years. The discovery and global roll-out of rapid diagnostics and effective antiretroviral therapy led to a large reduction in mortality and morbidity and to an expanding group of individuals requiring lifelong viral suppressive therapy. Viral suppression eliminates sexual transmission of the virus and greatly improves health outcomes. HIV infection, although still stigmatized, is now a chronic and manageable condition. Ultimate epidemic control will require prevention and treatment to be made available, affordable and accessible for all. Furthermore, the focus should be heavily oriented towards long-term well-being, care for multimorbidity and good quality of life. Intense research efforts continue for therapeutic and/or preventive vaccines, novel immunotherapies and a cure.

Association of Antiretroviral Therapy with Platelet Function and Systemic Inflammatory Response in People Living with HIV: A Cross-Sectional Study

People living with HIV (PLWHIV) present an increased risk of adverse cardiovascular events. We aimed to assess whether antiretroviral therapy (ART) pharmacologically enhances platelet reactivity and platelet activation intensity, and explore the potential association with underlying inflammatory status. This was a cross-sectional cohort study carried out among PLWHIV on diverse ART regimens. Platelet reactivity and activation intensity were assessed using the bedside point-of-care VerifyNow assay, in P2Y12 reaction units (PRU), measurements of monocyte-platelet complexes, and P-selectin and GPIIb/IIIa expression increase, following activation with ADP, respectively. Levels of major inflammatory markers and whole blood parameters were also evaluated. In total, 71 PLWHIV, 59 on ART and 22 healthy controls, were included in this study. PRU values were significantly elevated in PLWHIV compared to controls [Mean; 257.85 vs. 196.67, p < 0.0001], but no significant differences were noted between ART-naïve or ART-experienced PLWHIV, or between TAF/TDF and ABC based regimens, similar to systemic inflammatory response. However, within-group analysis showed that PRUs were significantly higher in ABC/PI vs ABC/INSTI or TAF/TDF + PI patients, in line with levels of IL-2. PRU values did not correlate strongly with CD4 counts, viral load, or cytokine values. P-selectin and GPIIb/IIIa expression increased following ADP activation and were significantly more prominent in PLWHIV (p < 0.005). Platelet reactivity and platelet activation intensity were shown to be increased in PLWHIV, but they did not appear to be related to ART initiation, similar to the underlying systemic inflammatory response.

Longitudinal Changes in Subclinical Vascular Disease in Ugandan Youth With Human Immunodeficiency Virus

BACKGROUND

Prospective investigations on the risk of cardiovascular disease among youth with perinatally acquired human immunodeficiency virus (PHIV) in sub-Saharan Africa are lacking.

METHODS

A prospective observational cohort study was performed in 101 youth (aged 10-18 years) with PHIV and 97 who were human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) uninfected (HIV-), from 2017 to 2021 at the Joint Clinical Research Center in Uganda. Participants with PHIV were receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) and had HIV-1 RNA levels ≤400 copies/mL. The common carotid artery intima-media thickness (IMT) and pulse wave velocity (PWV) were evaluated at baseline and at 96 weeks. Groups were compared using unpaired t-test, and potential predictors of IMT and PWV were assessed using quantile regression.

RESULTS

Of the 198 participants recruited at baseline, 168 (89 with PHIV, 79 HIV-) had measurements at 96 weeks. The median age (interquartile range) age was 13 (11-15) years; 52% were female, and 85% had viral loads <50 copies/mL that remained undetectable at week 96. The baseline mean common carotid artery IMT was slightly higher in participants with PHIV compared with controls (P < .01), and PWV did not differ between groups (P = .08). At week 96, IMT decreased and PWV increased in the PHIV group (P ≤ .03); IMT increased in the HIV- group (P = .03), with no change in PWV (P = .92). In longitudinal analyses in those with PHIV, longer ART duration was associated with lower PWV (β = .008 [95% confidence interval, -.008 to .003]), and abacavir use with greater IMT (β = .043 [.012-.074]).

CONCLUSIONS

In healthy Ugandan youth with PHIV, virally suppressed by ART, the common carotid artery IMT did not progress over 2 years. Prolonged and early ART may prevent progression of subclinical vascular disease, while prolonged use of abacavir may increase it.

Changes in Coagulation and Platelet Reactivity in People with HIV-1 Switching Between Abacavir and Tenofovir

Background:

Several studies have shown an association between abacavir (ABC) and increased risk of myocardial infarction (MI), but the causative mechanism has not been established. Both vascular endothelial inflammation and platelet activation have been proposed as contributing factors.

Objective:

The study aims to investigate the effects of ABC relative to tenofovir disoproxil (TDF) on functional assays of primary and secondary hemostasis and a comprehensible range of relevant biomarkers.

Methods:

In an investigator-initiated, open-labeled, crossover trial, we included HIV-infected males receiving either ABC or TDF and switched treatment to the alternate drug. At inclusion and after three months on the new regimen, we performed Multiplate® and thromboelastography (TEG®) and measured biomarkers of coagulation, inflammation, platelet reactivity, endothelial disruption and activation, and fibrinolysis, lipids, HIV RNA, CD4, CD8, and creatinine. Treatment effects were assessed by comparing intraindividual differences between the two treatment orders by the Wilcoxon Rank Sum test.

Results:

In total, 43 individuals completed the study. No intraindividual differences were observed for Multiplate® or TEG® when switching between regimens. We observed a significant treatment effect on coagulation factors II-VII-X (p<0.0001), sCD40L (a biomarker of platelet reactivity, p=0.04), thrombomodulin (biomarker of endothelial damage, p=0.04), lipids, and CD8 cell counts (p=0.04), with higher values during ABC treatment compared to TDF.

Conclusion:

Compared to TDF, ABC treatment affected several outcome measures in a pro-coagulant direction. Suggesting that the risk of MI associated with ABC may be caused by the sum of multiple, discrete disturbances in the hemostatic system and endothelium.

Study Registration:

The trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov (NCT02093585).

Increased Circulating Levels of Growth Differentiation Factor 15 in Association with Metabolic Disorders in People Living with HIV Receiving Combined Antiretroviral Therapy

Objective: People living with HIV (PLWH) have an increased cardiovascular risk (CVR) owing to dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, and HIV/combination antiretroviral therapy (cART)-associated lipodystrophy (HALS). Atherosclerosis and inflammation are related to growth differentiation factor-15 (GDF15). The relationship between metabolic disturbances, HALS, and CVR with GDF15 in PLWH is not known. Research design and methods: Circulating GDF15 levels in 152 PLWH (with HALS = 60, without HALS = 43, cART-naïve = 49) and 34 healthy controls were assessed in a cross-sectional study. Correlations with lipids, glucose homeostasis, fat distribution, and CVR were explored. Results: PLWH had increased circulating GDF15 levels relative to controls. The increase was the largest in cART-treated PLWH. Age, homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance 1 (HOMA1-IR), HALS, dyslipidemia, C-reactive protein, and CVR estimated with the Framingham score correlated with GDF15 levels. The GDF15-Framingham correlation was lost after age adjustment. No correlation was found between GDF15 and the D:A:D Data Collection on Adverse Effects of Anti-HIV Drugs (D:A:D) score estimated CVR. CVR independent predictors were patient group (naïve, HALS−, and HALS+) and cumulated protease inhibitor or nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor exposure. Conclusions: PLWH, especially when cART-treated, has increased GDF15 levels—this increase is associated with dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, HALS, and inflammation-related parameters. GDF15 is unassociated with CVR when age-adjusted.

Association of the VACS Index With Hospitalization Among People With HIV in the NA-ACCORD

BACKGROUND

People with HIV (PWH) have a higher hospitalization rate than the general population. The Veterans Aging Cohort Study (VACS) Index at study entry well predicts hospitalization in PWH, but it is unknown if the time-updated parameter improves hospitalization prediction. We assessed the association of parameterizations of the VACS Index 2.0 with the 5-year risk of hospitalization.

SETTING

PWH ≥30 years old with at least 12 months of antiretroviral therapy (ART) use and contributing hospitalization data from 2000 to 2016 in North American AIDS Cohort Collaboration on Research and Design (NA-ACCORD) were included. Three parameterizations of the VACS Index 2.0 were assessed and categorized by quartile: (1) "baseline" measurement at study entry; (2) time-updated measurements; and (3) cumulative scores calculated using the trapezoidal rule.

METHODS

Discrete-time proportional hazard models estimated the crude and adjusted associations (and 95% confidence intervals [CIs]) of the VACS Index parameterizations and all-cause hospitalizations. The Akaike information criterion (AIC) assessed the model fit with each of the VACS Index parameters.

RESULTS

Among 7289 patients, 1537 were hospitalized. Time-updated VACS Index fitted hospitalization best with a more distinct dose-response relationship [score <43: reference; score 43-55: aHR = 1.93 (95% CI: 1.66 to 2.23); score 55-68: aHR = 3.63 (95% CI: 3.12 to 4.23); score ≥68: aHR = 9.98 (95% CI: 8.52 to 11.69)] than study entry and cumulative VACS Index after adjusting for known risk factors.

CONCLUSIONS

Time-updated VACS Index 2.0 had the strongest association with hospitalization and best fit to the data. Health care providers should consider using it when assessing hospitalization risk among PWH.

Sex Differences in Non-AIDS Comorbidities Among People With Human Immunodeficiency Virus

Women are grossly underrepresented in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) clinical and translational research. This is concerning given that people with HIV (PWH) are living longer, and thus accumulating aging-related non-AIDS comorbidities (NACMs); emerging evidence suggests that women are at higher risk of NACM development and progression compared with men. It is widely recognized that women vs men have greater immune activation in response to many viruses, including HIV-1; this likely influences sex-differential NACM development related to differences in HIV-associated chronic inflammation. Furthermore, many sociobehavioral factors that contribute to aging-related NACMs are known to differ by sex. The objectives of this review were to (1) synthesize sex-stratified data on 4 NACMs among PWH: bone disease, cardiovascular disease, metabolic dysfunction, and neurocognitive impairment; (2) evaluate the characteristics of key studies assessing sex differences in NACMs; and (3) introduce potential biological and psychosocial mechanisms contributing to emerging trends in sex-differential NACM risk and outcomes among PWH.

Cardiovascular toxicity of contemporary antiretroviral therapy

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

HIV treatment has evolved since the introduction of antiretroviral therapy (ART) in the 1990s. Earlier treatment strategies, and the introduction of integrase inhibitors in preferred first-line ART have fundamentally changed cardiovascular side effects due to HIV infection and ART. This review provides an update on cardiovascular toxicity of contemporary ART.

RECENT FINDINGS

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk, including heart failure, is still increased in people living with HIV (PLWH). Exposure to older antiretrovirals, including stavudine and zidovudine, still impact on CVD risk through persistent changes in body fat distribution years after discontinuation. Protease inhibitors (PI) and efavirenz have associated metabolic disturbances and increased risk of CVD, although use is decreasing worldwide. Integrase inhibitors and CCR5 antagonists seem to have negligible immediate CVD toxicity. Weight gain on newer antiretrovirals including integrase inhibitors is a reason for concern.

SUMMARY

CVD risk should be monitored carefully in PLWH who were exposed to first generation ART, efavirenz or to PIs. Registries should capture ART use and CVD events to stay informed on actual clinical risk in the current era of rapid initiation on integrase inhibitor-based ART.

Managing cardiovascular risk in people living with HIV in Asia - where are we now?

As the life expectancy of people living with HIV (PLWH) approaches that of the general population, the burden of comorbidities such as cardiovascular disease (CVD) is increasing. Regardless of HIV status, about 50% of CVD deaths worldwide occur in Asia, and Asian PLWH have a high prevalence of conventional CVD risk factors, such as smoking, dyslipidaemia, hypertension and insulin resistance or diabetes. As well as conventional CVD risk factors, PLWH have HIV-specific risk factors such as chronic inflammation, immune activation and endothelial damage, as well as risk factors related to antiretroviral therapy. This review describes the current knowledge on the epidemiology and risk factors of CVD in Asian PLWH and provides an Asian perspective on the recommendations for managing CVD risk in PLWH.

Acute myocardial infarction associated with abacavir and tenofovir based antiretroviral drug combinations in the United States

INTRODUCTION

Although individual antiretroviral drugs have been shown to be associated with elevated cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk, data are limited on the role of antiretroviral drug combinations. Therefore, we sought to investigate CVD risk associated with antiretroviral drug combinations.

METHODS

Using an administrative health-plan dataset, risk of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) associated with current exposure to antiretroviral drug combinations was assessed among persons living with HIV receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) across the U.S. from October 2009 through December 2014. To account for confounding-by-indication and for factors simultaneously acting as causal mediators and confounders, we applied inverse probability of treatment weighted marginal structural models to longitudinal data of patients.

RESULTS

Over 114,417 person-years (n = 73,071 persons) of ART exposure, 602 cases of AMI occurred at an event rate of 5.26 (95% CI: 4.86, 5.70)/1000 person-years. Of the 14 antiretroviral drug combinations studied, persons taking abacavir-lamivudine-darunavir had the highest incidence rate (IR: 11/1000; 95% CI: 7.4-16.0) of AMI. Risk (HR; 95% CI) of AMI was elevated for current exposure to abacavir-lamivudine-darunavir (1.91; 1.27-2.88), abacavir-lamivudine-atazanavir (1.58; 1.08-2.31), and tenofovir-emtricitabine-raltegravir (1.35; 1.07-1.71). Tenofovir-emtricitabine-efavirenz was associated with reduced risk (0.65; 0.54-0.78). Abacavir-lamivudine-darunavir was associated with increased risk of AMI beyond that expected of abacavir alone, likely attributable to darunavir co-administration. We did not find an elevated risk of AMI when abacavir-lamivudine was combined with efavirenz or raltegravir.

CONCLUSION

The antiretroviral drug combinations abacavir-lamivudine-darunavir, abacavir-lamivudine-atazanavir and tenofovir-emtricitabine-raltegravir were found to be associated with elevated risk of AMI, while tenofovir-emtricitabine-efavirenz was associated with a lower risk. The AMI risk associated with abacavir-lamivudine-darunavir was greater than what was previously described for abacavir, which could suggest an added risk from darunavir. The results should be confirmed in additional studies.

Switching to Bictegravir, Emtricitabine, and Tenofovir Alafenamide in Virologically Suppressed Adults With Human Immunodeficiency Virus

Background

Bictegravir (B)/emtricitabine (F)/tenofovir alafenamide (TAF) is guideline-recommended treatment for human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1). We evaluated whether people receiving dolutegravir (DTG) plus F/TAF or F/TDF (tenofovir disoproxil fumarate) with viral suppression can switch to B/F/TAF without compromising safety or efficacy, regardless of preexisting nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) resistance.

Methods

In this multicenter, randomized, double-blinded, active-controlled, noninferiority trial, we enrolled adults who were virologically suppressed for ≥6 months before screening (with documented/suspected NRTI resistance) or ≥3 months before screening (with no documented/suspected NRTI resistance) on DTG plus either F/TDF or F/TAF. We randomly assigned (1:1) participants to switch to B/F/TAF or DTG + F/TAF once daily for 48 weeks, each with matching placebo. The primary endpoint was proportion of participants with plasma HIV-1 RNA ≥50 copies/mL at week 48 (snapshot algorithm); the prespecified noninferiority margin was 4%.

Results

Five hundred sixty-seven adults were randomized; 565 were treated (284 B/F/TAF, 281 DTG + F/TAF). At week 48, B/F/TAF was noninferior to DTG + F/TAF, as 0.4% (1/284) vs 1.1% (3/281) had HIV-1 RNA ≥50 copies/mL (difference, −0.7% [95.001% confidence interval {CI}, −2.8% to 1.0%]). There were no significant differences in efficacy among participants with suspected or confirmed prior NRTI resistance (n = 138). No participant had treatment-emergent drug resistance. Median weight change from baseline at week 48 was +1.3 kg (B/F/TAF) vs +1.1 kg (DTG + F/TAF) (P = .46). Weight change differed by baseline NRTIs (+2.2 kg [F/TDF] and +0.6 kg [F/TAF], P < .001), with no differences between B/F/TAF and DTG + F/TAF.

Conclusions

The single-tablet regimen B/F/TAF is a safe, effective option for people virologically suppressed on DTG plus either F/TDF or F/TAF, including in individuals with preexisting resistance to NRTIs.

Clinical Trials Registration

NCT03110380.

Plasmatic Coagulation Capacity Correlates With Inflammation and Abacavir Use During Chronic HIV Infection

BACKGROUND

D-dimer concentrations in people living with HIV (PLHIV) on combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) are increased and have been linked to mortality. D-dimer is a biomarker of in vivo coagulation. In contrast to reports on D-dimer, data on coagulation capacity in PLHIV are conflicting. In this study, we assessed the effect of cART and inflammation on coagulation capacity.

SETTING

We explored coagulation capacity using calibrated thrombin generation (TG) and linked this to persistent inflammation and cART in a cross-sectional study including PLHIV with viral suppression and uninfected controls.

METHODS

We used multivariate analyses to identify independent factors influencing in vivo coagulation (D-dimer) and ex vivo coagulation capacity (TG).

RESULTS

Among 208 PLHIV, 94 (45%) were on an abacavir-containing regimen. D-dimer levels (219.1 vs 170.5 ng/mL, P = 0.001) and inflammatory makers (sCD14, sCD163, and high-sensitive C-reactive protein) were increased in PLHIV compared with those in controls (n = 56). PLHIV experienced lower TG (reflected by endogenous thrombin potential [ETP]) when compared with controls, after correction for age, sex, and antiretroviral therapy. Abacavir use was independently associated with increased ETP. Prothrombin concentrations were strongly associated with ETP and lower in PLHIV on a non-abacavir-containing regimen compared with those in controls, suggesting consumption as a possible mechanism for HIV-associated reduction in TG. D-dimer concentrations were associated with inflammation, but not TG.

CONCLUSIONS

Abacavir use was associated with increased TG and could serve as an additional factor in the reported increase in thrombotic events during abacavir use. Increased exposure to triggers that propagate coagulation, such as inflammation, likely underlie increased D-dimer concentrations found in most PLHIV.

Cardiovascular disease and prevention among people living with HIV in South Florida

ABSTRACT

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) has improved survival of patients living with HIV (PLWH); however, this has been accompanied by an increase in cardiovascular disease (CVD). Although preventative measures for CVD among the general population are well described, information is limited about CVD prevention among PLWH. The goal of this study was to characterize the prevalence of CVD in our population and to assess the use of primary and secondary prevention.We performed a retrospective review of PLWH receiving primary care at a large academic center in Miami, Florida. We characterized the prevalence of CVD, CVD risk, and the use of aspirin and statins for primary and secondary CVD prevention.A total of 985 charts were reviewed (45% women, 55% men). Average age was 52.2 years. Average CD4 count was 568 cells/microL. 92.9% were receiving ART, and 71% were virologically suppressed. The median 10-year ASCVD risk was 7.3%. The prevalence of CVD was 10.4% (N = 102). The odds of having CVD was lower in patients on ART (OR 0.47, 95% CI: 0.25-0.90, P = .02). The use of medications for primary and secondary prevention of CVD based on current guidelines was low: 15% and 37% for aspirin respectively, and 25% and 44% for statins.CVD risk and rates of CVD are high among PLWH and receiving ART could protect against CVD. However, the use of medications for primary and secondary prevention is low. Increased awareness of CVD risk-reduction strategies is needed among providers of PLWH to decrease the burden of CVD.

Cardiovascular Risk and Health Among People With HIV Eligible for Primary Prevention: Insights From the REPRIEVE Trial

Background

In addition to traditional cardiovascular (CV) risk factors, antiretroviral therapy, lifestyle, and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-related factors may contribute to future CV events in persons with HIV (PWH).

Methods

Among participants in the global REPRIEVE randomized trial, we characterized demographics and HIV characteristics relative to ACC/AHA pooled cohort equations (PCE) for atherosclerotic CV disease predicted risk and CV health evaluated by Life’s Simple 7 (LS7; includes smoking, diet, physical activity, body mass index, blood pressure, total cholesterol, and glucose).

Results

Among 7382 REPRIEVE participants (31% women, 45% Black), the median PCE risk score was 4.5% (lower and upper quartiles Q1, Q3: 2.2, 7.2); 29% had a PCE score <2.5%, and 9% scored above 10%. PCE score was related closely to known CV risk factors and modestly (<1% difference in risk score) to immune function and HIV parameters. The median LS7 score was 9 (Q1, Q3: 7, 10) of a possible 14. Only 24 participants (0.3%) had 7/7 ideal components, and 36% had ≤2 ideal components; 90% had <5 ideal components. The distribution of LS7 did not vary by age or natal sex, although ideal health was more common in low sociodemographic index countries and among Asians. Poor dietary and physical activity patterns on LS7 were seen across all PCE scores, including the lowest risk categories.

Conclusions

Poor CV health by LS7 was common among REPRIEVE participants, regardless of PCE. This suggests a critical and independent role for lifestyle interventions in conjunction with conventional treatment to improve CV outcomes in PWH.

Clinical Trials Registration: NCT02344290.

AIDS Clinical Trials Group study number: A5332.

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.

Gene Expression Profiles of Circular RNAs and MicroRNAs in Chronic Rhinosinusitis With Nasal Polyps

Introduction: Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is often classified primarily on the basis of the absence or presence of nasal polyps (NPs), that is, as CRS with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) or CRS without nasal polyps (CRSsNP). Additionally, according to the percentage of eosinophils, CRSwNP can be further divided into eosinophilic CRSwNP (ECRSwNP) and non-ECRSwNP. CRSwNP is a significant public health problem with a considerable socioeconomic burden. Previous research reported that the pathophysiology of CRSwNP is a complex, multifactorial disease. There have been many studies on its etiology, but its pathogenesis remains unclear. Dysregulated expression of microRNAs (miRNAs) has been shown in psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, pulmonary fibrosis, and allergic asthma. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are also involved in inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, septic acute kidney injury, myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury, and sepsis-induced liver damage. The function of miRNAs in various diseases, including CRSwNP, is a research hotspot. In contrast, there have been no studies on circRNAs in CRSwNP. Overall, little is known about the functions of circRNAs and miRNAs in CRSwNP. This study aimed to investigate the expression of circRNAs and miRNAs in a CRSwNP group and a control group to determine whether these molecules are related to the occurrence and development of CRSwNP.

Methods: Nine nasal mucosa samples were collected, namely, three ECRSwNP samples, three non-ECRSwNP samples, and three control samples, for genomic microarray analysis of circRNA and microRNA expression. All of the tissue samples were from patients who were undergoing functional endoscopic sinus surgery in our department. Then we selected some differentially expressed miRNAs and circRNAs for qPCR verification. Meanwhile, GO enrichment analysis and KEGG pathway analysis were applied to predict the biological functions of aberrantly expressed circRNAs and miRNAs based on the GO and KEGG databases. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis and principal component analysis (PCA) were performed to confirm these molecules are involved in the occurrence and development of CRSwNP.

Results: In total, 2,875 circRNAs showed significant differential expression in the CRSwNP group. Specifically, 1794 circRNAs were downregulated and 1,081 circRNAs were upregulated. In the CRSwNP group, the expression of 192 miRNAs was significantly downregulated, and none of the miRNAs were significantly upregulated. GO and KEGG analysis showed differential circRNAs and miRNAs were enriched in “amoebiasis,” “salivary secretion,” “pathways in cancer,” and “endocytosis.” Through qRT-PCR verification, the expression profiles of hsa-circ-0031593, hsa-circ-0031594, hsa-miR-132-3p, hsa-miR-145-5p, hsa-miR-146a-5p, and hsa-miR-27b-3p were shown to have statistical differences. In addition, ROC curve analysis showed that the molecules with the two highest AUCs were hsa-circ-0031593 with AUC 0.8353 and hsa-miR-145-5p with AUC 0.8690. Through PCA with the six ncRNAs, the first principal component explained variance ratio was 98.87%. The AUC of the six ncRNAs was 0.8657.

Conclusion: In our study, the expression profiles of ECRSwNP and non-ECRSwNP had no statistical differences. The differentially expressed circRNAs and miRNAs between CRSwNP and control may play important roles in the pathogenesis of CRSwNP. Altered expression of hsa-circ-0031593 and hsa-miR-145-5p have the strongest evidence for involvement in the occurrence and development of CRSwNP because their AUCs are higher than the other molecules tested in this study.

Subclinical Vascular Disease in Children With Human Immunodeficiency Virus in Uganda Is Associated With Intestinal Barrier Dysfunction

BACKGROUND

The risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and its mechanisms in children living with perinatally acquired HIV (PHIV) in sub-Saharan Africa has been understudied.

METHODS

Mean common carotid artery intima-media thickness (IMT) and pulse-wave velocity (PWV) were evaluated in 101 PHIV and 96 HIV-negative (HIV-) children. PHIV were on ART, with HIV-1 RNA levels ≤400 copies/mL. We measured plasma and cellular markers of monocyte activation, T-cell activation, oxidized lipids, and gut integrity.

RESULTS

Overall median (interquartile range, Q1-Q3) age was 13 (11-15) years and 52% were females. Groups were similar by age, sex, and BMI. Median ART duration was 10 (8-11) years. PHIV had higher waist-hip ratio, triglycerides, and insulin resistance (P ≤ .03). Median IMT was slightly thicker in PHIVs than HIV- children (1.05 vs 1.02 mm for mean IMT and 1.25 vs 1.21 mm for max IMT; P < .05), while PWV did not differ between groups (P = .06). In univariate analyses, lower BMI and oxidized LDL, and higher waist-hip ratio, hsCRP, and zonulin correlated with thicker IMT in PHIV (P ≤ .05). After adjustment for age, BMI, sex, CD4 cell count, triglycerides, and separately adding sCD163, sCD14, and hsCRP, higher levels of intestinal permeability as measured by zonulin remained associated with IMT (β = 0.03 and 0.02, respectively; P ≤ .03).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study shows that African PHIV have evidence of CVD risk and structural vascular changes despite viral suppression. Intestinal intestinal barrier dysfunction may be involved in the pathogenesis of subclinical vascular disease in this population.

Interactions of HIV and Antiretroviral Therapy With Neutrophils and Platelets

Neutrophils are important components of the innate immune system that mediate pathogen defense by multiple processes including phagocytosis, release of proteolytic enzymes, production of reactive oxygen species, and neutrophil extracellular trap formation. Abnormalities of neutrophil count and function have been described in the setting of HIV infection, with the majority of antiretroviral agents (ARVs), excluding zidovudine, having been reported to correct neutropenia. Questions still remain, however, about their impact on neutrophil function, particularly the possibility of persistent neutrophil activation, which could predispose people living with HIV to chronic inflammatory disorders, even in the presence of virally-suppressive treatment. In this context, the effects of protease inhibitors and integrase strand transfer inhibitors, in particular, on neutrophil function remain poorly understood and deserve further study. Besides mediating hemostatic functions, platelets are increasingly recognized as critical role players in the immune response against infection. In the setting of HIV, these cells have been found to harbor the virus, even in the presence of antiretroviral therapy (ART) potentially promoting viral dissemination. While HIV-infected individuals often present with thrombocytopenia, they have also been reported to have increased platelet activation, as measured by an upregulation of expression of CD62P (P-selectin), CD40 ligand, glycoprotein IV, and RANTES. Despite ART-mediated viral suppression, HIV-infected individuals reportedly have sustained platelet activation and dysfunction. This, in turn, contributes to persistent immune activation and an inflammatory vascular environment, seemingly involving neutrophil-platelet-endothelium interactions that increase the risk for development of comorbidities such as cardiovascular disease (CVD) that has become the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in HIV-infected individuals on treatment, clearly underscoring the importance of unraveling the possible etiologic roles of ARVs. In this context, abacavir and ritonavir-boosted lopinavir and darunavir have all been linked to an increased risk of CVD. This narrative review is therefore focused primarily on the role of neutrophils and platelets in HIV transmission and disease, as well as on the effect of HIV and the most common ARVs on the numbers and functions of these cells, including neutrophil-platelet-endothelial interactions.

Antiretroviral Drugs Associated With Subclinical Coronary Artery Disease in the Swiss Human Immunodeficiency Virus Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Coronary artery disease (CAD) events have been associated with certain antiretroviral therapy (ART) agents. In contrast, the influence of ART on subclinical atherosclerosis is not clear. The study objective was to assess the association between individual ART agents and the prevalence and extent of subclinical CAD.

METHODS

Coronary artery calcium (CAC) scoring and coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) were performed in ≥45-year-old Swiss Human Immunodeficiency Virus Cohort Study participants. The following subclinical CAD endpoints were analyzed separately: CAC score >0, any plaque, calcified plaque, noncalcified/mixed plaque, segment involvement score (SIS), and segment severity score (SSS). Logistic regression models calculated by inverse probability of treatment weights (IPTW) were used to explore associations between subclinical CAD and cumulative exposure to the 10 most frequently used drugs.

RESULTS

There were 403 patients who underwent CCTA. A CAC score >0 was recorded in 188 (47%), any plaque in 214 (53%), calcified plaque in 151 (38%), and noncalcified/mixed plaque in 150 (37%) participants. A CAC score >0 was negatively associated with efavirenz (IPTW adjusted odds ratio per 5 years 0.73, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.56-0.96), tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (0.68, 95% CI 0.49-0.95), and lopinavir (0.64, 95% CI 0.43-0.96). Any plaque was negatively associated with tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (0.71, 95% CI 0.51-0.99). Calcified plaque was negatively associated with efavirenz (0.7, 95% CI 0.57-0.97). Noncalcified/mixed plaque was positively associated with abacavir (1.46, 95% CI 1.08-1.98) and negatively associated with emtricitabine (0.67, 95% CI 0.46-0.99). For SSS and SIS, we found no association with any drug.

CONCLUSIONS

An increased risk of noncalcified/mixed plaque was only found in patients exposed to abacavir. Emtricitabine was negatively associated with noncalcified/mixed plaque, while tenofovir disoproxil fumarate and efavirenz were negatively associated with any plaque and calcified plaque, respectively.

Effects of HIV Infection on Arterial Endothelial Function: Results From a Large Pooled Cohort Analysis

OBJECTIVE

To determine the effects of HIV serostatus and disease severity on endothelial function in a large pooled cohort study of people living with HIV infection and HIV- controls. Approach and Results: We used participant-level data from 9 studies: 7 included people living with HIV (2 treatment-naïve) and 4 had HIV- controls. Brachial artery flow-mediated dilation (FMD) was measured using a standardized ultrasound imaging protocol with central reading. After data harmonization, multiple linear regression was used to examine the effects of HIV- serostatus, HIV disease severity measures, and cardiovascular disease risk factors on FMD. Of 2533 participants, 986 were people living with HIV (mean 44.4 [SD 11.8] years old) and 1547 were HIV- controls (42.9 [12.2] years old). The strongest and most consistent associates of FMD were brachial artery diameter, age, sex, and body mass index. The effect of HIV+ serostatus on FMD was strongly influenced by kidney function. In the highest tertile of creatinine (1.0 mg/dL), the effect of HIV+ serostatus was strong (β=-1.59% [95% CI, -2.58% to -0.60%], P=0.002), even after covariate adjustment (β=-1.36% [95% CI, -2.46% to -0.47%], P=0.003). In the lowest tertile (0.8 mg/dL), the effect of HIV+ serostatus was strong (β=-1.90% [95% CI, -2.58% to -1.21%], P<0.001), but disappeared after covariate adjustment. HIV RNA viremia, CD4+ T-cell count, and use of antiretroviral therapy were not meaningfully associated with FMD.

CONCLUSIONS

The significant effect of HIV+ serostatus on FMD suggests that people living with HIV are at increased cardiovascular disease risk, especially if they have kidney disease.

Cardiovascular Events in an Inner-City HIV Clinic and Relationship to Abacavir Versus Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate-Containing Antiretroviral Regimens

Following cardiovascular events (CVE) among people living with HIV (PLWH) is essential. Abacavir (ABC)'s impact on CVE challenges clinicians. We characterized CVE at our HIV clinic associated with ABC versus tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF). This was a retrospective study of PLWH who started combination antiretroviral therapy with no prior CVE. Patients were evaluated as antiretroviral naive or antiretroviral experienced. Regimens included the following: always-ABC, always-TDF, first-ABC-switched-to-TDF, and first-TDF-switched-to-ABC regimens. Frequencies, rates, and Poisson regression were used to analyze CVE (cardiovascular/cerebrovascular) and were stratified with an a priori cutoff of before or after January 1, 2009. 1,440/2,852 patients were antiretroviral naive; 658 on always-ABC regimens, 1,186 on always-TDF regimens, 737 first-ABC-switched-to-TDF regimens, and 271 first-TDF-switched-to-ABC regimens. Seventy seven CVE occurred overall [16 naive vs. 61 experienced (p < .0001)]. Sixty events were cardiovascular and 17 cerebrovascular (p < .0001). Sixty-nine CVE occurred before 2009 and eight after (p < .0001). There were 5.65 CVE-per-1,000-years [95% confidence interval (CI) 3.23-9.87] in the always-ABC, 1.95 CVE-per-1,000-years (95% CI 1.08-3.51) in the always-TDF, 2.01 CVE-per-1,000-years (95% CI 1.14-3.56) in the ABC-switched-to-TDF, and 1.82 CVE-per-1,000-years (95% CI 0.77-4.30) in TDF-switched-to-ABC (p <.01). Multivariable Poisson regression incidence rate ratios (IRRs) revealed that being on ABC-only (IRR 2.89; 95% CI 2.13-3.94), age (IRR 1.06 per year; 95% CI 1.04-1.07), and smoking (IRR for current 2.81; 95% CI 1.97-3.99; IRR for former 2.49; 95% CI 1.72-3.61) increased risk of CVE. Thus, in our clinic, CVE rates were increased in those on ABC and adds to the body of literature suggesting concern.

U.S. Hospitalization rates and reasons stratified by age among persons with HIV 2014-15

Persons with HIV (PWH) are aging. The impact of aging on healthcare utilization is unknown. The objective of this study was to evaluate hospitalization rates and reasons stratified by age among PWH in longitudinal HIV care. Hospitalization data from 2014-2015 was obtained on all adults receiving HIV care at 14 diverse sites within the HIV Research Network in the United States. Modified clinical classification software from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality assigned primary ICD-9 codes into diagnostic categories. Analysis performed with multivariate negative binomial regression. Among 20,608 subjects during 2014-2015, all cause hospitalization rate was 201/1000PY. Non-AIDS defining infection (non-ADI) was the leading cause for admission (44.2/1000PY), followed by cardiovascular disease (CVD) (21.2/1000PY). In multivariate analysis of all-cause admissions, the incidence rate ratio (aIRR) increased with older age (age 18-29 reference): age 30-39 aIRR 1.09 (0.90,1.32), age 40-49 1.38 (1.16,1.63), age 50-59 1.58 (1.33,1.87), and age ≥ 60 2.14 (1.77,2.59). Hospitalization rates increased significantly with age for CVD, endocrine, renal, pulmonary, and oncology. All cause hospitalization rates increased with older age, especially among non-communicable diseases (NCDs), while non-ADIs remained the leading cause for hospitalization. HIV providers should be comfortable screening for and treating NCDs.

Sex- and Poverty-Specific Patterns in Cardiovascular Disease Mortality Associated With Human Immunodeficiency Virus, New York City, 2007-2017

BACKGROUND

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) may affect the risk of death due to cardiovascular disease (CVD) differently in men versus women.

METHODS

We examined CVD mortality rates between 2007 and 2017 among all New York City residents living with HIV and aged 13+ by sex, using data from city HIV surveillance and vital statistics and the National Death Index. Residents without HIV were enumerated using modified US intercensal estimates. We determined associations of HIV status with CVD mortality by sex and neighborhood poverty, defined as the percent of residents living below the federal poverty level, after accounting for age, race/ethnicity, and year.

RESULTS

There were 3234 CVD deaths reported among 147 915 New Yorkers living with HIV, with the proportion of deaths due to CVD increasing from 11% in 2007 to 22% in 2017. The age-standardized CVD mortality rate was 2.7/1000 person-years among both men and women with HIV. The relative rate of CVD mortality associated with HIV status was significantly higher among women (adjusted rate ratio [aRR] 1.7, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.6-1.8) than men (aRR 1.2, 95% CI 1.1-1.3) overall, and within strata defined by neighborhood poverty. Sex differences in CVD mortality rates were the greatest when comparing individuals living with HIV and having detectable HIV RNA and CD4+ T-cell counts <500 cells/uL with individuals living without HIV.

CONCLUSIONS

Among people with HIV, 1 in 5 deaths is now associated with CVD. HIV providers should recognize the CVD risk among women with HIV, and reinforce preventive measures (eg, smoking cessation, blood pressure control, lipid management) and viremic control among people living with HIV regardless of neighborhood poverty to reduce CVD mortality.Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) increases cardiovascular disease mortality risks to a greater degree among women than men, even after accounting for neighborhood poverty. HIV providers should emphasize cardiovascular disease prevention (eg, smoking cessation, hypertension control, lipid management) and viremic control.

Cardiovascular disease risk among transgender women living with HIV in the United States

BACKGROUND

Transgender women (TW) are disproportionately affected by both HIV and cardiovascular disease (CVD).

OBJECTIVES

We aim to quantify prevalence of elevated predicted CVD risk for TW compared to cisgender women (CW) and cisgender men (CM) in HIV care and describe the impact of multiple operationalizations of CVD risk score calculations for TW.

DESIGN

We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of patients engaged in HIV care between October 2014 and February 2018.

SETTING

The Centers for AIDS Research Network of Integrated Clinical Systems, a collaboration of 8 HIV clinical sites in the United States contributed data for this analysis.

PATIENTS

221 TW, 2983 CW, and 13467 CM.

MEASUREMENTS

The measure of interest is prevalence of elevated 10-year cardiovascular disease risk based on ACC/AHA Pooled Cohort Risk Assessment equations (PCE) and the Framingham Risk Score (FRS), calculated for TW by: birth-assigned sex (male); history of exogenous sex hormone use (female/male); and current gender (female).

RESULTS

Using birth-assigned sex, the adjusted prevalence ratio (aPR) was 2.52 (95% CI: 1.08,5.86) and 2.58 (95% CI: 1.71,3.89) comparing TW to CW, by PCE and FRS, respectively. It was 1.25 (95% CI: 0.54,2.87) and 1.25 (95% CI: 0.84,1.86) comparing TW to CM, by PCE and FRS, respectively. If TW were classified according to current gender versus birth-assigned sex, their predicted CVD risk scores were lower.

LIMITATIONS

PCE and FRS have not been validated in TW with HIV. Few adjudicated CVD events in the data set precluded analyses based on clinical outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

After adjustment for demographics and history of HIV care, prevalence of elevated CVD risk in TW was similar to CM and equal to or higher than in CW, depending operationalization of the sex variable. Future studies with CVD outcomes are needed to help clinicians accurately estimate CVD risk among TW with HIV.

Cardiovascular disease among people living with HIV in Brazil

OBJECTIVES

There is a paucity of data on cardiovascular disease (CVD) among people living with HIV (PLHIV) in resource-limited countries. We assessed factors associated with CVD and the impact of prevalent CVD on all-cause mortality in PLHIV on antiretroviral therapy in Brazil.

METHODS

Competing risk regression to assess factors associated with CVD and all-cause mortality in the HIV-Brazil Cohort Study between 2003 and 2014.

RESULTS

Among 5614 patients, the rate of CVD was 3.5 (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 2.9-4.3) per 1000 person-years. CVD was associated with older age (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 6.4 for ≥55 years vs. <35 years, 95% CI: 2.5-16.3, P < 0.01), black race (aHR 1.8 vs. white race, 95% CI: 1.0-3.1, P = 0.04), past CVD (aHR 3.0 vs. no past CVD, 95% CI: 1.4-6.2, P < 0.01), hypertension (aHR 1.8 vs. no hypertension, 95% CI: 1.0-3.1, P = 0.04), high-grade dyslipidemia (aHR 9.3 vs. no high-grade dyslipidemia, 95% CI: 6.0-14.6, P < 0.01), ever smoking (aHR 2.4 vs. never, 95% CI: 1.2-5.0, P = 0.02) and low nadir CD4 cell count (aHR 1.8 for 100-250 cells/mm3 vs. >250 cells/mm3 , 95% CI: 1.0-3.2, P = 0.05). The rate of death was 16.6 (95% CI: 15.1-18.3) per 1000 person-years. Death was strongly associated with having had a past CVD event (aHR 1.7 vs. no past CVD event, 95% CI: 1.1-2.7, P = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Traditional and HIV-specific factors associated with CVD among PLHIV in Brazil are similar to those identified among PLHIV in high-income countries. PLHIV in Brazil with a history of CVD have a high risk of death. CVD care and treatment remain priorities for PLHIV in Brazil as this population ages and antiretroviral therapy use expands.

Epidemiology, pathophysiology, and prevention of heart failure in people with HIV

Heart failure (HF) has been a known complication of HIV/AIDS for three decades. As the treatment of HIV has changed, so has the epidemiology and pathophysiology of HF in people with HIV (PWH). Initial manifestations of HF in uncontrolled HIV primarily included a rapidly evolving cardiomyopathy with pericardial involvement. With the widespread uptake of effective antiretroviral therapy (ART), HF in PWH has become a chronic disease reflective of the aging population and associated comorbidities, albeit with a contribution from HIV-associated chronic immune dysregulation and inflammation. Despite viral suppression, PWH remain at elevated risk for both HF with reduced ejection fraction and HF with preserved ejection fraction. In this review, we discuss the changing epidemiology and mechanisms of HF in PWH and how that may inform HF prevention in this vulnerable population.

Optimizing antiretroviral regimens in chronic kidney disease

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To identify recent data that inform the management of individuals with HIV and chronic kidney disease.

RECENT FINDINGS

Several nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase, protease, and integrase strand transfer inhibitors inhibit tubular creatinine secretion resulting in stable reductions in creatinine clearance of 5-20 ml/min in the absence of other manifestations of kidney injury. Progressive renal tubular dysfunction is observed with tenofovir disoproxil fumarate in clinical trials, and more rapid decline in estimated glomerular filtration rate in cohort studies of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate and atazanavir, with stabilization, improvement or recovery of kidney function upon discontinuation. Results from clinical trials of tenofovir alafenamide (TAF) in individuals with chronic kidney disease suggest that TAF is well tolerated in those with mild to moderate renal impairment (creatinine clearance >30 ml/min) but results in very high tenofovir exposures in those on haemodialysis.

SUMMARY

Standard antiretroviral regimens remain appropriate for individuals with normal and/or stable, mildly impaired kidney function. In those with chronic kidney disease or progressive decline in estimated glomerular filtration rate, antiretrovirals with nephrotoxic potential should be avoided or discontinued. Although TAF provides a tenofovir formulation for individuals with impaired kidney function, TAF is best avoided in those with severe or end-stage kidney disease.

Beyond one pill, once daily: current challenges of antiretroviral therapy management in the United States

Introduction: Modern antiretroviral therapy (ART) has revolutionized HIV treatment. ART regimens are now highly efficacious, well-tolerated, safe, often with one multi-drug pill, once-daily regimens available. However, clinical challenges persist in managing ART in persons with HIV (PWH), such as drug-drug interactions, side effects, pregnancy, co-morbidities, and adherence.Areas Covered: In this review, we discuss the ongoing challenges of ART for adults in the United States. We review the difficulties of initiating ART and maintaining therapy throughout adulthood and discuss new agents and strategies under investigation to address these issues. A PubMed search was utilized to identify relevant publications and guidelines through July 2019.Expert Opinion: Challenges persist in initiation and maintenance of ART. An individual's coexisting medical, social and personal factors must be considered in selecting and continuing ART to ensure safety, tolerability, and efficacy throughout adulthood. Continued development of new therapeutics and novel approaches to ART, such as long acting drugs or dual therapy, are needed to respond to many of these challenges. In addition, future research must address therapeutic disparities for populations historically underrepresented in clinical trials, including women, people aging with HIV, and those with complex comorbidities.

No progression of subclinical atherosclerosis in HIV-infected patients starting an initial regimen including tenofovir alafenamide/emtricitabine plus raltegravir, dolutegravir or elvitegravir/cobicistat during a two-year follow-up

Objectives: Cardiovascular disease has become one of the most common comorbidities among HIV-infected patients, but available data about the correlation between antiretroviral drugs and progression rate of atherosclerotic disease are still limited. We evaluated the progression rate of carotid atherosclerosis in patients starting an initial antiretroviral regimen including one integrase strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI).Methods: Observational, prospective study involving HIV-1-infected, antiretroviral therapy-naive, adult patients who started an antiretroviral regimen including tenofovir alafenamide/emtricitabine (TAF/FTC) plus raltegravir (RAL group), elvitegravir/cobicistat (EVG/c group), or dolutegravir (DTG group). Patients with known cardiovascular disease or diabetes mellitus were excluded from the study. The progression rate of atherosclerosis has been assessed by carotid Doppler ultrasonography at baseline and after 24 months.Results: Overall, 102 patients were enrolled into the study: 73 males, with mean age of 48.7 years: 32, 36 and 34 patients were included in the RAL, EVG/c and DTG groups, respectively. The baseline features of the enrolled patients were comparable across the three groups. At 24 months, the mean intima-media thickness (IMT) increase at the carotid bifurcation was 0.026 mm in the RAL group, 0.029 mm in EVG/c group and 0.032 mm in DTG group. The mean IMT increases after 24 months were comparable across the three groups and statistically not significant in all the evaluated anatomical sites.Conclusions: The initial antiretroviral therapy with TAF/FTC plus RAL, EVG/c or DTG for 24 months led to a comparable and not significant effect on the progression rate of carotid atherosclerosis.

Key Principles of Antiretroviral Pharmacology

Antiretroviral therapy has advanced significantly since zidovudine was first approved. Although 31 antiretrovirals have been approved by the FDA, only about half of those are commonly used. Newer, more tolerable agents have made human immunodeficiency virus into a chronic condition, which can be managed with medication. The most common antiretroviral regimens consist of 2 nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors plus a third agent, often an integrase inhibitor because of better tolerability and fewer drug interactions than other regimens. Understanding the dosage forms, adverse effects, and drug interactions of antiretrovirals allow clinicians to choose the most appropriate regimen for their patient. New developments, such as branded generic regimens and long-acting intramuscular injections, may play a larger role in the future.

HIV infection and coronary heart disease: mechanisms and management

Antiretroviral therapy has largely transformed HIV infection into a chronic disease condition. As such, physicians and other providers caring for individuals living with HIV infection need to be aware of the potential cardiovascular complications of HIV infection and the nuances of how HIV infection increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, including acute myocardial infarction, stroke, peripheral artery disease, heart failure and sudden cardiac death, as well as how to select available therapies to reduce this risk. In this Review, we discuss the epidemiology and clinical features of cardiovascular disease, with a focus on coronary heart disease, in the setting of HIV infection, which includes a substantially increased risk of myocardial infarction even when the HIV infection is well controlled. We also discuss the mechanisms underlying HIV-associated atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, such as the high rates of traditional cardiovascular risk factors in patients with HIV infection and HIV-related factors, including the use of antiretroviral therapy and chronic inflammation in the setting of effectively treated HIV infection. Finally, we highlight available therapeutic strategies, as well as approaches under investigation, to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and lower inflammation in patients with HIV infection.

Switching from a regimen containing abacavir/lamivudine or emtricitabine/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate to emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide fumarate does not affect central nervous system HIV-1 infection

Background: Despite suppressive antiretroviral therapy (ART), many HIV-infected individuals have low-level persistent immune activation in the central nervous system (CNS). There have been concerns regarding the CNS efficacy of tenofovir alafenamide fumarate (TAF) because of its low cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) concentrations and because it is a substrate of the active efflux transporter P-glycoprotein. Our aim was to investigate whether switching from emtricitabine (FTC)/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) or abacavir (ABC)/lamivudine (3TC) to FTC/TAF would lead to changes in residual intrathecal immune activation, viral load, or neurocognitive function. Methods: Twenty HIV-1-infected neuro-asymptomatic adults (11 on ABC/3TC and 9 on FTC/TDF) were included in this prospective study. At baseline, all participants changed their nucleoside analogues to FTC/TAF without any other changes in their ART regimen. We performed lumbar punctures, venipunctures, and neurocognitive testing at baseline and after three and 12 months. Results: During follow-up, there were no significant changes in CSF or plasma HIV RNA, CSF neopterin, CSF β2-microglobulin, IgG index, albumin ratio, CSF NFL, or neurocognitive function in assessed by Cogstate in any of the groups. Conclusion: This small pilot study indicates that switching to FTC/TAF from ABC/3TC or FTC/TDF has neither a positive, nor a negative effect on the HIV infection in the CNS.

Randomized study evaluating the efficacy and safety of switching from an an abacavir/lamivudine-based regimen to an elvitegravir/cobicistat/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide single-tablet regimen

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of switching from an abacavir/lamivudine (ABC/3TC)-based regimen to an elvitegravir/cobicistat/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide (E/C/F/TAF) single-tablet regimen in virologically suppressed, HIV-1-infected adults.

DESIGN

Randomized, open-label, noninferiority study.

METHODS

Participants with HIV-1 RNA levels less than 50 copies/ml receiving ABC/3TC plus a third agent for at least 6 months were randomized 2 : 1 to switch immediately to E/C/F/TAF (immediate-switch group) for 48 weeks or to continue receiving ABC/3TC plus a third agent for 24 weeks followed by E/C/F/TAF for 24 weeks (delayed-switch group). The primary endpoint was HIV-1 RNA less than 50 copies/ml at Week 24 by Food and Drug Administration Snapshot algorithm (-12% noninferiority margin).

RESULTS

Baseline characteristics of 274 participants (183 in immediate-switch group and 91 in delayed-switch group) were similar. Virologic response was maintained at Week 24 by 93.4 and 97.8% of participants in the immediate-switch and delayed-switch groups, respectively, with a treatment difference of -4.4% (95% confidence interval: -9.4 to 1.9%), confirming noninferiority. Adverse events of any grade were similar between groups through Week 24 (66% E/C/F/TAF, 64% ABC/3TC); adverse event-related drug discontinuations occurred in 4% of participants switching to E/C/F/TAF (no discontinuations because of renal events) and no participants continuing ABC/3TC. Renal biomarkers of urine albumin:creatinine and beta-2-microglobulin:creatinine ratios significantly improved on E/C/F/TAF. Self-reported treatment satisfaction was significantly higher with E/C/F/TAF.

CONCLUSION

Switching to E/C/F/TAF was noninferior to continuing ABC/3TC plus a third agent for maintenance of HIV RNA suppression at Week 24. This study supports E/C/F/TAF as an efficacious and well tolerated option for participants switching from ABC/3TC-based regimens.

WS. Characteristics, Prevention, and Management of Cardiovascular Disease in People Living With HIV: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association

As early and effective antiretroviral therapy has become more widespread, HIV has transitioned from a progressive, fatal disease to a chronic, manageable disease marked by elevated risk of chronic comorbid diseases, including cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Rates of myocardial infarction, heart failure, stroke, and other CVD manifestations, including pulmonary hypertension and sudden cardiac death, are significantly higher for people living with HIV than for uninfected control subjects, even in the setting of HIV viral suppression with effective antiretroviral therapy. These elevated risks generally persist after demographic and clinical risk factors are accounted for and may be partly attributed to chronic inflammation and immune dysregulation. Data on long-term CVD outcomes in HIV are limited by the relatively recent epidemiological transition of HIV to a chronic disease. Therefore, our understanding of CVD pathogenesis, prevention, and treatment in HIV relies on large observational studies, randomized controlled trials of HIV therapies that are underpowered to detect CVD end points, and small interventional studies examining surrogate CVD end points. The purpose of this document is to provide a thorough review of the existing evidence on HIV-associated CVD, in particular atherosclerotic CVD (including myocardial infarction and stroke) and heart failure, as well as pragmatic recommendations on how to approach CVD prevention and treatment in HIV in the absence of large-scale randomized controlled trial data. This statement is intended for clinicians caring for people with HIV, individuals living with HIV, and clinical and translational researchers interested in HIV-associated CVD.

Initial Antiretroviral Therapy in an Integrase Inhibitor Era: Can We Do Better?

With the second-generation integrase inhibitors (dolutegravir and bictegravir) extending the attributes of earlier integrase inhibitors, three-drug regimens containing integrase inhibitors plus two nucleos(t)ide reverse transcriptase inhibitors are now widely recommended for first-line (initial) treatment of human immunodeficiency virus-1 infection. Led by dolutegravir plus lamivudine, two-drug therapy is emerging as a way to reduce antiretroviral therapy cost and adverse effects without compromising treatment options should virologic failure occur. Initial two-drug therapy has limitations, including the relative incompatibility with the coemerging concept of same-day antiretroviral therapy initiation.

Drug-drug interactions and clinical considerations with co-administration of antiretrovirals and psychotropic drugs

Psychotropic medications are frequently co-prescribed with antiretroviral therapy (ART), owing to a high prevalence of psychiatric illness within the population living with HIV, as well as a 7-fold increased risk of HIV infection among patients with psychiatric illness. While ART has been notoriously associated with a multitude of pharmacokinetic drug interactions involving the cytochrome P450 enzyme system, the magnitude and clinical impact of these interactions with psychotropics may range from negligible effects on plasma concentrations to life-threatening torsades de pointes or respiratory depression. This comprehensive review summarizes the currently available information regarding drug-drug interactions between antiretrovirals and pharmacologic agents utilized in the treatment of psychiatric disorders-antidepressants, stimulants, antipsychotics, anxiolytics, mood stabilizers, and treatments for opioid use disorder and alcohol use disorder-and provides recommendations for their management. Additionally, overlapping toxicities between antiretrovirals and the psychotropic classes are highlighted. Knowledge of the interaction and adverse effect potential of specific antiretrovirals and psychotropics will allow clinicians to make informed prescribing decisions to better promote the health and wellness of this high-risk population.

Co-formulated bictegravir, emtricitabine, and tenofovir alafenamide versus dolutegravir with emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide for initial treatment of HIV-1 infection: week 96 results from a randomised, double-blind, multicentre, phase 3, non-inferiority trial

BACKGROUND

The single-tablet regimen consisting of bictegravir, emtricitabine, and tenofovir alafenamide is recommended for treatment of HIV-1 infection on the basis of data from 48 weeks of treatment. Here, we examine the longer-term efficacy, safety, and tolerability of bictegravir, emtricitabine, and tenofovir alafenamide compared with dolutegravir plus co-formulated emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide at week 96.

METHODS

This ongoing, randomised, double-blind, multicentre, active-controlled, phase 3, non-inferiority trial was done at 126 outpatient centres in ten countries. We enrolled treatment-naive adults (aged ≥18 years) with HIV-1 infection who had an estimated glomerular filtration rate of at least 30 mL/min and sensitivity to emtricitabine and tenofovir. People with chronic hepatitis B or C infection, or both, and those who had used antivirals previously for prophylaxis were allowed. We randomly assigned participants (1:1) to receive treatment with either co-formulated bictegravir 50 mg, emtricitabine 200 mg, and tenofovir alafenamide 25 mg (the bictegravir group) or dolutegravir 50 mg with co-formulated emtricitabine 200 mg and tenofovir alafenamide 25 mg (the dolutegravir group), each with matching placebo, once daily for 144 weeks. Treatment allocation was masked to all participants and investigators. All participants who received at least one dose of study drug were included in primary efficacy and safety analyses. We previously reported the primary endpoint. Here, we report the week 96 secondary outcome of proportion of participants with plasma HIV-1 RNA less than 50 copies per mL at week 96 by US Food and Drug Administration snapshot algorithm, with a prespecified non-inferiority margin of -12%. This study was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT02607956.

FINDINGS

Between Nov 13, 2015, and July 14, 2016, we screened 742 individuals, of whom 657 were enrolled. 327 participants were assigned to the bictegravir group and 330 to the dolutegravir group. Of these, 320 in the bictegravir group and 325 in the dolutegravir group received at least one dose of study drug. At week 96, HIV-1 RNA less than 50 copies per mL was achieved by 269 (84%) of 320 participants in the bictegravir group and 281 (86%) of 325 in the dolutegravir group (difference -2·3%, 95% CI -7·9 to 3·2), demonstrating non-inferiority of the bictegravir regimen compared with the dolutegravir regimen. Both treatments continued to be well tolerated through 96 weeks; 283 (88%) of 320 participants in the bictegravir group and 288 (89%) of 325 in the dolutegravir group had any adverse event and 55 (17%), and 33 (10%) had any serious adverse event. The most common adverse events were diarrhoea (57 [18%] of 320 in the bictegravir group vs 51 [16%] of 325 in the dolutegravir group) and headache (51 [16%] of 320 vs 48 [15%] of 325). Deaths were reported for three (1%) individuals in each group (one cardiac arrest, one gastric adenocarcinoma, and one hypertensive heart disease and congestive cardiac failure in the bictegravir group and one unknown causes, one pulmonary embolism, and one lymphoma in the dolutegravir group); none were considered to be treatment related. Adverse events led to discontinuation in six (2%) participants in the bictegravir group and five (2%) in the dolutegravir group; one of these events in the bictegravir group versus four in the dolutegravir group occurred between weeks 48 and 96. Study drug-related adverse events were reported for 64 (20%) participants in the bictegravir group and 92 (28%) in the dolutegravir group.

INTERPRETATION

These week 96 data support bictegravir, emtricitabine, and tenofovir alafenamide as a safe, well tolerated, and durable treatment for people living with chronic HIV.

FUNDING

Gilead Sciences, Inc.

Patient-Reported Symptoms Over 48 Weeks Among Participants in Randomized, Double-Blind, Phase III Non-inferiority Trials of Adults with HIV on Co-formulated Bictegravir, Emtricitabine, and Tenofovir Alafenamide versus Co-formulated Abacavir, Dolutegravir, and Lamivudine

Background

Integrase strand transfer inhibitors (INSTIs) are recommended for first-line antiretroviral therapy in combination with two nucleos(t)ide reverse transcriptase inhibitors. Co-formulated bictegravir, emtricitabine, and tenofovir alafenamide (B/F/TAF), a novel, INSTI-based regimen, is currently approved in the US and EU for the treatment of HIV-1 infection and recommended as first-line treatment in current guidelines. In our current analysis, we aimed to determine changes in patient-reported symptoms over time among HIV-1-infected adults who initiated or switched to B/F/TAF versus another INSTI-based regimen, co-formulated abacavir, dolutegravir, and lamivudine (ABC/DTG/3TC).

Methods

A planned secondary analysis of patient-reported outcomes was conducted for two double-blind, randomized, phase III studies in HIV-1-infected adults comparing B/F/TAF with ABC/DTG/3TC: one in treatment-naïve individuals (GS-US-380-1489, ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02607930) and the other in virologically suppressed participants (GS-US-380-1844, ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02603120). In both studies, the HIV symptoms distress module (HIV-SI) was administered at baseline (BL) and weeks 4, 12, and 48. Responses to each of the 20 items were dichotomized as bothersome or not bothersome. Treatment differences were assessed using unadjusted and adjusted logistic regression models (adjusted for BL HIV-SI count, age, sex, BL Veterans Aging Cohort Study [VACS] Index, medical history of serious mental illness, BL Short Form [SF]-36 Physical Component Summary [PCS], BL SF-36 Mental Component Summary [MCS], and, for virologically suppressed participants only, years since HIV diagnosis). We conducted longitudinal modeling of bothersome symptoms using a generalized mixed model including treatment, time, time-by-treatment, and additional covariates from the adjusted logistic regression model as described above. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) was administered at the same frequency as the HIV-SI, and the total score was dichotomized as good or poor sleep quality. Similar models to those used for HIV-SI were applied, using BL sleep quality and BL SF-36 MCS as covariates. Statistical significance was assessed using p < 0.05.

Results

Across both studies, bothersome symptoms were reported by fewer participants on B/F/TAF than those on ABC/DTG/3TC. In treatment-naïve adults, fatigue/loss of energy, nausea/vomiting, dizzy/lightheadedness, and difficulty sleeping were reported significantly less with B/F/TAF at two or more time points. Fatigue and nausea were also significantly less common for those receiving B/F/TAF in longitudinal models. In virologically suppressed participants, nausea/vomiting, sad/down/depressed, nervous/anxious, and poor sleep quality (from the PSQI) were reported significantly less with B/F/TAF at two or more time points, as well as in longitudinal models.

Conclusions

B/F/TAF was associated with lower prevalence of bothersome symptoms than ABC/DTG/3TC in both treatment-naïve and virologically suppressed adults.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1007/s40271-018-0322-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Risk of cardiovascular disease associated with exposure to abacavir among individuals with HIV: A systematic review and meta-analyses of results from 17 epidemiologic studies

OBJECTIVES

Abacavir's potential to cause cardiovascular disease (CVD) among people living with HIV (PLWH) is debated. We conduct a systematic review and meta-analyses to assess CVD risk from recent and cumulative abacavir exposure.

METHODS

We searched Medline, Embase, Web of Science, abstracts from Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections, and International AIDS Society/AIDS Conferences and bibliographies of review articles to identify research studies published through 2018 on CVD risk associated with abacavir exposure among PLWH. Studies assessing risk of CVD associated with recent (exposure within last 6 months) or cumulative abacavir exposure across all age-groups were eligible. Risks were quantified using fixed- and random-effects models.

RESULTS

Of 378 unique citations, 68 full-text research articles and abstracts were reviewed. Seventeen studies assessed risk of CVD from recent or cumulative abacavir exposure. Summary relative risk (sRR) is increased for recent exposure (n=16 studies, sRR=1.61; 95% confidence interval: 1.48-1.75), higher in antiretroviral-therapy-naive population (n=5, 1.91; 1.48-2.46) and all studies reported RR>1. The sRR for recent exposure was similarly increased for the outcome of acute myocardial infarction, and for studies that adjusted for substance abuse, smoking, prior CVD, traditional CVD risk factors, and CD4 cell-count/HIV viral load. The sRR was increased for cumulative abacavir exposure (per year) (n=4, 1.12; 1.05-1.20) but no increase was seen after adjusting for recent exposure (n=5, 1.00; 0.93-1.08).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest an increased risk of CVD from recent abacavir exposure. The risk remained elevated after adjusting for potential confounders. Further investigations are needed to understand CVD risk from cumulative exposure.

Patient-Reported Symptoms Over 48 Weeks Among Participants in Randomized, Double-Blind, Phase III Non-inferiority Trials of Adults with HIV on Co-formulated Bictegravir, Emtricitabine, and Tenofovir Alafenamide versus Co-formulated Abacavir, Dolutegravir, and Lamivudine

BACKGROUND

Integrase strand transfer inhibitors (INSTIs) are recommended for first-line antiretroviral therapy in combination with two nucleos(t)ide reverse transcriptase inhibitors. Co-formulated bictegravir, emtricitabine, and tenofovir alafenamide (B/F/TAF), a novel, INSTI-based regimen, is currently approved in the US and EU for the treatment of HIV-1 infection and recommended as first-line treatment in current guidelines. In our current analysis, we aimed to determine changes in patient-reported symptoms over time among HIV-1-infected adults who initiated or switched to B/F/TAF versus another INSTI-based regimen, co-formulated abacavir, dolutegravir, and lamivudine (ABC/DTG/3TC).

METHODS

A planned secondary analysis of patient-reported outcomes was conducted for two double-blind, randomized, phase III studies in HIV-1-infected adults comparing B/F/TAF with ABC/DTG/3TC: one in treatment-naïve individuals (GS-US-380-1489, ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02607930) and the other in virologically suppressed participants (GS-US-380-1844, ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02603120). In both studies, the HIV symptoms distress module (HIV-SI) was administered at baseline (BL) and weeks 4, 12, and 48. Responses to each of the 20 items were dichotomized as bothersome or not bothersome. Treatment differences were assessed using unadjusted and adjusted logistic regression models (adjusted for BL HIV-SI count, age, sex, BL Veterans Aging Cohort Study [VACS] Index, medical history of serious mental illness, BL Short Form [SF]-36 Physical Component Summary [PCS], BL SF-36 Mental Component Summary [MCS], and, for virologically suppressed participants only, years since HIV diagnosis). We conducted longitudinal modeling of bothersome symptoms using a generalized mixed model including treatment, time, time-by-treatment, and additional covariates from the adjusted logistic regression model as described above. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) was administered at the same frequency as the HIV-SI, and the total score was dichotomized as good or poor sleep quality. Similar models to those used for HIV-SI were applied, using BL sleep quality and BL SF-36 MCS as covariates. Statistical significance was assessed using p < 0.05.

RESULTS

Across both studies, bothersome symptoms were reported by fewer participants on B/F/TAF than those on ABC/DTG/3TC. In treatment-naïve adults, fatigue/loss of energy, nausea/vomiting, dizzy/lightheadedness, and difficulty sleeping were reported significantly less with B/F/TAF at two or more time points. Fatigue and nausea were also significantly less common for those receiving B/F/TAF in longitudinal models. In virologically suppressed participants, nausea/vomiting, sad/down/depressed, nervous/anxious, and poor sleep quality (from the PSQI) were reported significantly less with B/F/TAF at two or more time points, as well as in longitudinal models.

CONCLUSIONS

B/F/TAF was associated with lower prevalence of bothersome symptoms than ABC/DTG/3TC in both treatment-naïve and virologically suppressed adults.

Antiretroviral Drugs for Treatment and Prevention of HIV Infection in Adults: 2018 Recommendations of the International Antiviral Society-USA Panel

Importance

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is the cornerstone of prevention and management of HIV infection.

Objective

To evaluate new data and treatments and incorporate this information into updated recommendations for initiating therapy, monitoring individuals starting therapy, changing regimens, and preventing HIV infection for individuals at risk.

Evidence Review

New evidence collected since the International Antiviral Society-USA 2016 recommendations via monthly PubMed and EMBASE literature searches up to April 2018; data presented at peer-reviewed scientific conferences. A volunteer panel of experts in HIV research and patient care considered these data and updated previous recommendations.

Findings

ART is recommended for virtually all HIV-infected individuals, as soon as possible after HIV diagnosis. Immediate initiation (eg, rapid start), if clinically appropriate, requires adequate staffing, specialized services, and careful selection of medical therapy. An integrase strand transfer inhibitor (InSTI) plus 2 nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) is generally recommended for initial therapy, with unique patient circumstances (eg, concomitant diseases and conditions, potential for pregnancy, cost) guiding the treatment choice. CD4 cell count, HIV RNA level, genotype, and other laboratory tests for general health and co-infections are recommended at specified points before and during ART. If a regimen switch is indicated, treatment history, tolerability, adherence, and drug resistance history should first be assessed; 2 or 3 active drugs are recommended for a new regimen. HIV testing is recommended at least once for anyone who has ever been sexually active and more often for individuals at ongoing risk for infection. Preexposure prophylaxis with tenofovir disoproxil fumarate/emtricitabine and appropriate monitoring is recommended for individuals at risk for HIV.

Conclusions and Relevance

Advances in HIV prevention and treatment with antiretroviral drugs continue to improve clinical management and outcomes for individuals at risk for and living with HIV.

Switching to fixed-dose bictegravir, emtricitabine, and tenofovir alafenamide from dolutegravir plus abacavir and lamivudine in virologically suppressed adults with HIV-1: 48 week results of a randomised, double-blind, multicentre, active-controlled, phase 3, non-inferiority trial

BACKGROUND

Bictegravir, co-formulated with emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide, has shown good efficacy and tolerability, and similar bone, renal, and lipid profiles to dolutegravir, abacavir, and lamivudine, in treatment-naive adults with HIV-1 infection, without development of treatment-emergent resistance. Here, we report 48-week results of a phase 3 study investigating switching to bictegravir, emtricitabine, and tenofovir alafenamide from dolutegravir, abacavir, and lamivudine in virologically suppressed adults with HIV-1 infection.

METHODS

In this multicentre, randomised, double-blind, active-controlled, non-inferiority, phase 3 trial, HIV-1-infected adults were enrolled at 96 outpatient centres in nine countries. Eligible participants were aged 18 years or older and on a regimen of 50 mg dolutegravir, 600 mg abacavir, and 300 mg lamivudine (fixed-dose combination or multi-tablet regimen); had an estimated glomerular filtration rate of 50 mL/min or higher; and had been virologically suppressed (plasma HIV-1 RNA <50 copies per mL) for 3 months or more before screening. We randomly assigned participants (1:1), using a computer-generated randomisation sequence, to switch to co-formulated bictegravir (50 mg), emtricitabine (200 mg), and tenofovir alafenamide (25 mg; herein known as the bictegravir group), or to remain on dolutegravir, abacavir, and lamivudine (herein known as the dolutegravir group), once daily for 48 weeks. The investigators, participants, study staff, and individuals assessing outcomes were masked to treatment assignment. The primary endpoint was the proportion of participants with plasma HIV-1 RNA of 50 copies per mL or higher at week 48 (according to the US Food and Drug Administration snapshot algorithm); the prespecified non-inferiority margin was 4%. The primary efficacy and safety analyses included all participants who received at least one dose of study drug. This study is ongoing but not actively recruiting participants and is in the open-label extension phase, wherein participants are given the option to receive bictegravir, emtricitabine, and tenofovir alafenamide for an additional 96 weeks. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT02603120.

FINDINGS

Between Nov 11, 2015, and July 6, 2016, 567 participants were randomly assigned and 563 were treated (282 received bictegravir, emtricitabine, and tenofovir alafenamide, and 281 received dolutegravir, abacavir, and lamivudine). Switching to the bictegravir regimen was non-inferior to remaining on dolutegravir, abacavir, and lamivudine for the primary outcome: three (1%) of 282 in the bictegravir group had HIV-1 RNA of 50 copies per mL or higher at week 48 versus one (<1%) of 281 participants in the dolutegravir group (difference 0·7%, 95·002% CI -1·0 to 2·8; p=0·62). Treatment-related adverse events were recorded in 23 (8%) participants in the bictegravir group and 44 (16%) in the dolutegravir group. Treatment was discontinued because of adverse events in six (2%) participants in the bictegravir group and in two (1%) participants in the dolutegravir group.

INTERPRETATION

The fixed-dose combination of bictegravir, emtricitabine, and tenofovir alafenamide might provide a safe and efficacious option for ongoing treatment of HIV-1 infection.

FUNDING

Gilead Sciences.