Synergistic Effect of Alcohol and Antiretroviral Drugs on Hepatic Function

N. M. Igboh¹, D. Onwubiko¹, E. N. Agomuo², I. Onyesom⁴, C. A. Maduagwunal³ and U. E. Uzuegbu⁴

¹College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Abia State University, Uturu Nigeria.

²Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Imo State University, Owerri Nigeria.

³Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Abia State University, Uturu Nigeria.

⁴Department of Medical Biochemistry, Delta State University, Abraka Nigeria.

Corresponding Author E-mail: drngomi @ yahoo.co.uk.

ABSTRACT: No doubt, the introduction of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) has led to a substantial reduction in morbidity in HIV/AIDS patients. Possible alcohol use by HIV-infected persons is not uncommon. This may lead to decreased antiretroviral adherence and increased susceptibility to liver disease. At present there is little information on the interactions between alcohol and antiretroviral drugs in HIV-infected patients and their impact on the liver in our locality. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of alcohol and retroviral drugs on the liver, by assessing the activities of serum enzymes and bilirubin level in HIV patients on high active antiretroviral therapy .Those on highly active antiretroviral therapy were placed in group I, while those who are on (HAART) and could not however stop their drinking habit and probably, take between 37 to 74 grams (< 40%) alcohol per day, were placed in group II. Blood samples were obtained from these HIV patients thirty HIV negative patients who served as control individuals. The biochemical parameters monitored were serum enzymes: aspartate transaminase (AST), Alanine transaminase (ALT), gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP).Total bilirubin was also determined. The result showed a significant increase (p<0.05) in the activity of AST among the group II patients (HIV patients on antiretroviral drugs and still take alcohol). The Activity of ALT and GGT were also high (p<0.05) in this same group of patients when compared with those on antiretroviral alone (group1) or control group. However, serum total bilirubin level was in significantly highest in group II. Alcohol appears to worsen the degree of liver dysfunction induced by HAART. HIV/AIDS patients on antiretroviral drugs should be advised to discontinue the intake of alcohol.

KEYWORDS: Liver enzymes; Total bilirubin; HIV; AIDS; High active antiretroviral drugs

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