The effect of veno-arterial extracorporeal oxygenation and nasogastric tube administration on the pharmacokinetic profile of abacavir, lamivudine and dolutegravir: a case report

Abstract

Background: Pharmacokinetic (PK) changes can affect antiretroviral (ARV) systemic exposure for critically ill patients living with HIV (CI-PLWH). Studies to guide ARV adjustments in this population are limited.

Methods: A PK analysis was conducted in a 44-year-old CI-PLWH who presented for a heart and lung transplant on veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA ECMO). Home ARV therapy (ART) of co-formulated abacavir/lamivudine/dolutegravir (ABC/3TC/DTG) was continued. ARV serum concentrations were obtained during and after VA ECMO. Two blood levels were drawn at 1 h, for maximum serum concentration (C_max) and a serum trough (C_t). ARVs were given as a single tablet crushed via nasogastric tube.

Results: Area under the concentration-time curve (AUC_0-t) was calculated using non-compartmental analysis. C_max and AUC_0-t were higher during VA ECMO compared with post-decannulation. The C_max of ABC was >2.5-fold higher than the mean in the reference. C_max and C_t post VA ECMO were within range of referenced literature for all ARVs. C_max and AUC_0-t of DTG post VA ECMO was approximately four- to fivefold lower than referenced literature. HIV virological suppression was maintained throughout the hospitalization.

Conclusions: ART adjustments would not be required for this patient. Additional studies are needed to assess effects of VA ECMO and crushed tube administration of ARVs in CI-PLWH.