The influence of alternative medicine in highly active antiretroviral treatment

Abstract

Objective

Over the last few years, there has been a notable increase in the use of alternative medicine by the general population. The aim of this study is 2-fold. Firstly we will analyse the incidence of the use of medicinal plants in patients with HIV undergoing Highly Active Anti-Retroviral Therapy (HAART). Secondly, with the help of existing bibliographic information, we want to study the existence of possible interactions.

Material and method

We carried out a prospective study with a targeted interview (October to December 2007) on consenting patients with HIV undergoing HAART treatment.

Results

Of the 193 patients that agreed to take part in the survey, 16.6% confirmed they used alternative medicinal therapies. In 46% of the cases there was a potential interaction with the effectiveness of HAART. Forty-six percent of the potential interactions were in the case of the patients who used grapefruit as an alternative medicine, 21% in the case of patients using thistle and Echinacea respectively, 4% for those using omega-3, Chinese herbs, and ginseng.

Conclusion

There is a significant use of natural products by these groups of patients, of which a significant percentage interact with HAART. A better understanding of the possible interactions with HAART and improved information offered to patients with HIV is needed.