TreatmentUpdate43: Vol. 4, No. 3, July, 1993 Sean Hosein
People with HIV infection seem more likely to experience allergic reactions to and toxic effects of certain drugs. Researchers are not sure why this happens. In this issue of TreatmentUpdate we will focus on common drug interactions and symptoms of drug toxicity which may be seen when patients use drugs for PCP/toxo, MAC/TB, anti-fungal drugs, and methadone. In the next issue we will have the same information on anti-cancer agents and drugs for herpes viruses. We do not have room for the vast number of side effects that may be caused by each drug. This is just a partial list of the more common adverse reactions and drug interactions that may be experienced by some people with HIV infection. Not every person will experience every side effect. Moreover, the same side effect may be mild in one patient and serious in another. Careful monitoring may allow doctors to rescue patients from the toxic effects of drugs. Articles on the toxicity of certain drugs on the immune system will also appear in future issues of TreatmentUpdate.
This information is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between you and your doctor.