Unlocking the potential: exploring the impact of dolutegravir treatment on body mass index improvement in underweight adults with HIV in Malawi

• DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18818-x
• Publication Date: 2024-05-16T06:02:07Z
• Authors: Thulani Maphosa; Shalom Dunga; Lucky Makonokaya; Godfrey Woelk; Alice Maida; Alice Wang; Allan Ahimbisibwe; Rachel K. Chamanga; Suzgo B. Zimba; Dumbani Kayira; Rhoderick Machekano
• Keywords: Underweight; Interquartile range; Dolutegravir; Tolerability; Regimen; Weight change

Abstract Background The introduction of dolutegravir (DTG) in treating HIV has shown enhanced efficacy and tolerability. This study examined changes weight gain body mass index (BMI) at 6- 12-months after post-initiating antiretroviral therapy (ART), comparing people living with (PLHIV) on DTG-based regimens those non-DTG-based Malawi. Methods Retrospective cohort data from 40 public health facilities Malawi were used, including adult ART patients (aged ≥ 15 years) January 2017 to March 2020. primary outcomes BMI changes/transitions, secondary focused estimating the proportion mean > 10% post-ART initiation category transitions. Descriptive statistics binomial regression used estimate unadjusted adjusted relative risks (RR) more than ( >) 10%. Results included 3,520 baseline initiation, predominantly female (62.7%) aged 25–49 (61.1%), a median age 33 years (interquartile range (IQR), 23–42 years). These findings highlight influence age, history, current regimen gain. After 12months follow up, compared 15–24 years, individuals had an Adjusted RR (ARR) 0.5 (95% Confidence Interval (CI): 0.35–0.70), suggesting 50% reduced likelihood initiation. Similarly, 50 + ARR 0.33 CI: 0.20–0.58), indicating 67% decreased youngest group years. highlights positive impact regimens, revealing significant transitions underweight normal categories post-initiation. Conclusion provides insights into patterns non-DTG regimens. Younger (15–24 exhibited higher odds gain, need for increased surveillance this group. contribute understanding DTG's potential effects aiding clinical decision making. Further research is required comprehensively understand underlying mechanisms long-term implications receiving