Renal function is preserved following Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate (TDF) initiation among Rwandan’s living with HIV

Abstract

Background: Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) is the antiretroviral drug most commonly associated with renal dysfunction. However, few studies have examined this association in sub-Saharan Africa despite recent scale-up of antiretroviral therapy (ART) to all people living with HIV (Treat All) in this region. We assessed estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) change among HIV infected Rwandan adults following first line TDF-based therapy initiation. Methods: This prospective, observational study was conducted in 10 Rwandan health centers. Participants were ART-naive adults aged 18 years and above, living with HIV who initiated TDF-based ART from July 1, 2016 through July 30, 2018. The primary outcome was eGFR change from pre- (within 12 months) to post-TDF initiation (within 6 months). Results: Of 476 patients with pre- and post- TDF eGFR measurements, 264 (55.5%) were women and mean age was 35.9 years (SD 9.6). Mean pre-TDF eGFR was 92.4 (SD 24.0) and mean post-TDF was 96.0 (SD 21.0) mL/min/1.73m2. Mean pre- to post-TDF change thus increased 3.60 (SD, 26.6) mL/min/1.73m2 (p=0.001). Conclusion: We detected a statistically significant clinically small renal function improvement within 6 months following TDF initiation among 476 ART-naive patients. This supports continued TDF use for first-line treatment. Key words: Tenofovir, renal function, Treat All, HIV