Fosamprenavir linked to heart problems

In December, GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) issued a letter alerting clinicians to the potential association between use of their protease inhibitor fosamprenavir (Telzir) and dyslipidemia (abnormal blood fat [1]A fat. levels) and myocardial infarction (heart attack [2]A 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.).

The warning is based on data from a French study presented at the 2009 Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections showing that fosamprenavir increased the risk of myocardial infarction by 52%.

Consequently, GSK has modified the Warnings and Precautions section of its fosamprenavir prescribing information, and now recommends that triglyceride [3]A type of fat in the blood. Elevated triglyceride levels may be a side effect of some anti-HIV drugs. and cholesterol [4]An 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. testing should be performed prior to starting fosamprenavir and at periodic intervals during therapy with that particular treatment.