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| JANUARY
2004
Letter From the Editor Dear Colleagues: Currently, there are twenty-one medications that have been FDA approved for the treatment of HIV infection. Most HIV-infected persons who have access to treatment are experiencing highly active antiretroviral therapy- (HAART) associated immune reconstitution, are less likely to develop an opportunistic infection or malignancy, and are living longer. However, as we wade with our patients into this ever-growing pool of medications, the risks associated with polypharmacy have increased exponentially. Drug-drug interactions have been recognized that can lead to life-threatening toxicities or subtherapeutic medication levels. Clinicians who are not knowledgeable about these potential interactions can unwittingly contribute to the development of resistant strains of HIV. Alternatively, uninformed choices can lead to the failure of opportunistic infection prophylaxis or treatment. The onus is therefore upon us as HIV care providers to be aware of the myriad of potential adverse interactions that accompany the medications in our armamentarium. In addition, we must be cognizant of interactions that may occur with over-the-counter drugs, herbal remedies, and recreational drugs. This month's lead article by Dr. John Faragon of Albany College of Pharmacy and Dr. Peter Piliero of Albany Medical College provides a thorough review of the clinically significant drug interactions associated with HAART. This month's HIV 101 addresses drug interactions that can occur with the concurrent use HAART and methadone. Next month we will bring you an update on Tuberculosis and a Spotlight on the growing role of electronic medical records in the management of chronic diseases, with a focus on products that are currently being used in the correctional setting. As always, we welcome your feedback and suggestions. We value the collaborative relationship that we have developed with you, our readers and colleagues in correctional health care. It is our sincere hope that HEPP Report's first issue of 2004 meets your expectations, and that we continue to serve as a useful resource to you throughout the coming year. Sincerely,
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Main Article: Clinically Significant Drug Interactions Associated with Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy Editor's Letter HIV 101: Drug Interactions with HAART and Methadone Inside News Save the Dates Related Resources CME Online Exam
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