Drug Interactions During Periodontal Therapy in HIV-Infected Subjects

Abstract

Despite the beneficial effect of the HAART, adverse reactions and drug interaction have been observed. Abnormalities in lipid and glucose metabolism make HIV-positive patients to high risk for the development of coronary heart disease and diabetes, respectively. Besides adverse reactions, drug interaction with other medication can also be observed. In fact, drug interaction may interfere in the periodontal therapy in HIV-infected individuals. For instance, fluconazole, ketoconazole, itraconazole, metronidazole, ciprofloxacin, midazolam and triazolam can interact with some antiretroviral medications, such as zidovudine, nevirapine and ritonavir. The aim of the current study was to show to periodontists and general dental practitioners the importance of understanding the drug interaction in HIV-infection in order to establish a better control during periodontal treatment.

Potential drug interactions in patients given antiretroviral therapy

“…In these cases, a modification of therapy should be considered. For example, in the PDDI of diazepam and ritonavir, the use of a benzodiazepine such as lorazepam could prevent an increase in sedation effects 23 .…”