Short-term effect of HAART on blood pressure in HIV-infected individuals

Purpose: Use of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) is associated with coronary heart disease (CHD) risk and may lead to the development of hypertension (HTN). The purpose of this study was to determine the short-term effect of HAART on the blood pressure. Method: A prospective, standardized, observational study of HIV-infected persons starting protease inhibitor (PI) or non-PI-based HAART. HIV-infected individuals not on HAART served as controls. Standardized blood pressure readings were taken using American Heart Association recommended techniques at baseline, 4-6 weeks, and >= 6 months. Results: 63 subjects were enrolled. 51 subjects completed all study visits. There were no significant differences in baseline demographic or clinical characteristics between the PI (n = 16), non-PI (n = 20), or control (n = 15) participants. Two subjects developed HTN during the study. There were no significant changes in systolic, diastolic, or mean arterial pressures after 4-6 weeks or 6 months between or within groups. Conclusion: Initiation of HAART did not significantly alter blood pressure within the first 6 months of use. Prior reported associations of hypertension with HAART may be related to techniques used to measure blood pressure, specific antiretroviral agents, longer term use of HAART, or the presence of other risk factors typically associated with the development of HTN.