Members and consultants of the US Department of Health and Human Services panel released their recommendations for antiretroviral use in patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV)/HIV coinfection. The panel recommends regular HCV screening as essential for all HIV patients, with more frequent testing for those at high risk or suspected of new HCV infection. Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) is advised for all HCV/HIV coinfected patients to slow liver disease and manage HIV, irrespective of CD4 count. ART initiation should consider concurrent HCV treatment and potential drug interactions. Monitoring HIV RNA after ART changes is crucial. Overall, the panel underscores the need for integrated and meticulous treatment strategies for HCV/HIV coinfection, focusing on drug interactions and comprehensive patient care.

Reference: Guidelines for the Use of Antiretroviral Agents in Adults and Adolescents with HIV. Clinicalinfo.HIV.gov. Updated March 23, 2023. Accessed January 23, 2024. https://clinicalinfo.hiv.gov/en/guidelines/hiv-clinical-guidelines-adult-and-adolescent-arv/coinfections-hepatitis-c-virus-hcv