Lower arterial stiffness and Framingham score after switching abacavir to tenofovir in men at high cardiovascular risk

Abstract

Abacavir's effect on cardiovascular function has not been studied prospectively. We measured augmentation index (a measure of arterial stiffness) in 20 men who switched from abacavir to tenofovir. After 4 weeks, mean augmentation index reduced from 22% by 4% (P = 0.03) and Framingham risk score by 2% (P = 0.01), which was driven by lower total cholesterol (0.8 mmol/l; P = 0.002). Consistent trends were observed through week 24. Changes in C-reactive protein, interleukin-6 and D-dimer were inconsistent and only occurred from week 12. Abacavir may impair cardiovascular function by increasing total cholesterol levels.