BESTT Women's Study: Bone Evaluation in HIV-positive women who switch from Truvada/NNRTI to Triumeq

Project Summary 

Treatment of HIV has been revolutionised by successful treatment with antiretroviral therapy (ART). This means that people living with HIV who are treated before significant immunodeficiency are expected, with life-long treatment, to live a normal lifespan. ART may result in reductions in bone mineralisation and kidney function, although this remains poorly studied in women. 

This trial will examine the effects of switching ART regimen on bone mineralisation and kidney function. Preservation of bone mineral density is particularly relevant in the study population of women over 40. 

Participants will be randomised to switch to Triumeq (abacavir/lamivudine/dolutegravir), or continue their existing triple therapy (consisting of tenofovir/emtricitabine or lamivudine, plus an NNRTI [efavirenz, nevirapine, etravirine or rilpivirine]). 

The primary outcome will be the change from baseline in total hip bone mineral density at week 48, in each arm.

Key Project Information

Dates: 16th May 2016 - (ongoing)

UCL lead/Principal Investigator: Dr Laura Waters

Lead organisation: King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust

Project lead: Dr Frank Post

Partners: Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust

Location: UK

Funding: ViiV Healthcare Ltd

Contact: mmc-research-cnwl@nhs.net