Psychotropic Drugs and HIV

Authors

  • Ana-Lúcia Moreira Centro Hospitalar Lisboa Norte, EPE; Faculty of Medicine of the University of Lisbon
  • Melinda Carmen Godinho Pereira Faculty of Medicine of the University of Lisbon
  • Diogo Telles-Correia Centro Hospitalar Lisboa Norte, EPE; Faculty of Medicine of the University of Lisbon; Psychiatric Approach to Liver Transplanted Patients’ Unit of Curry Cabral Hospital’s Liver Transplantation Center, Lisbon

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.25752/psi.4104

Keywords:

Psychotropic Drugs, HIV, Anti-HIV Agents, Drug Interactions

Abstract

Background: HIV/AIDS infection is frequently associated with psychiatric disor- ders like psychosis, depression and anxiety. Psychiatric comorbidities may interfere with adherence to antiretroviral treatment. Therefore, diagnosis and treatment of these conditions are essential. However, the administration of a psychotropic drug to HAART therapy can result in drug interactions.

Objectives: This review aims to analyze the various psychotropic drugs that can be used in these patients, as well as the interactions and adverse reactions that may occur.

Methods: A MEDLINE search on anglo-saxonic literature was conducted, from 1993 until 2011, using the key-words: HIV, AIDS, psychosis, depression, anxiety, secondary mania, antidepressive agents, antipsychotics, benzodiazepines, HAART.

Results: We found 100 articles, of which 66 were included and 34 excluded. The articles that showed no specific data on the use of psychotropic drugs in HIV patients were excluded.

Discussion: Pharmachologic interactions may occur by occupation of the same metabolic pathways. Further research is needed with indications for best practices. Psychotherapeutic interventions should be considered.

Conclusion: The choice of the therapeutic intervention, namely when considering psychotropic drugs with the lowest number of interactions and adverse effects is crucial in order to achieve therapeutic success in the treatment of HIV infected patients.

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Published

2014-06-30

Issue

Vol. 11 No. 2 (2013)

Section

Review Articles

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