NAPWA

A French case-control study has reported an association between exposure to fosamprenavir and an increased risk of heart attackA life-threatening emergency in which the blood supply to the heart is suddenly cut off, causing the heart muscle (myocardium) to die from lack of oxygen.. This may be related to the propensity for this drug classA group of anti-HIV drugs with the same target of action. Anti-HIV drug classes include nucleoside analogue reverse transcriptase inhibitors, protease inhibitors and non-nucleoside analogue reverse transcriptase inhibitors, as well as several others. Combining drugs from three or more classes is the basis of Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART). to raise blood lipids.

GlaxoSmithKline has issued a warning to doctors, suggesting that triglycerideA type of fat in the blood. Elevated triglyceride levels may be a side effect of some anti-HIV drugs. and cholesterolAn essential component of cell membranes and nerve fibre insulation, cholesterol is important for the metabolism and transport of fatty acids and the production of hormones and Vitamin D. Cholesterol is manufactured by the liver, and is also present in certain foods. High blood cholesterol levels have been linked to heart disease and may be a side effect of some anti-HIV medications. levels should be checked prior to initiating therapy with fosamprenavir and periodically during treatment with the drug. Also that appropriate clinicalPertaining to or founded on observation and treatment of participants, as distinguished from theoretical or basic science. management of lipid disorders should be initiated as required.

They stress that other modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular disease, such as hypertensionPersistently high blood pressure, an outwardly symptomless condition which carries an increased risk of serious illnesses such as stroke, heart disease and heart attack., diabetes[Diabetes mellitus] A disorder in which sugars in the diet cannot be metabolised into energy due to a lack of the enzyme insulin. Late-onset diabetes mellitus may be a long-term side effect of some anti-HIV drugs. and smoking, should also be monitored in people with HIV and managed as clinically appropriate.