title: Co-trimoxazole desensitization in HIV-seropositive patients.
abstract: Co-trimoxazole (trimethoprim-sulphamethoxazole) is an effective prophylactic agent against Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP). However, it is associated with a high frequency of adverse reactions in immunocompromised patients which may preclude its use. Fourteen patients with a definite history of adverse reactions to co-trimoxazole on standard PCP prophylactic dosage were selected for desensitization using a regimen of gradual incremental exposure over an 11-day period. Eight (57.1%) were successfully desensitized and have continued on oral co-trimoxazole at maximum 21 months' follow-up. This report demonstrates that oral desensitization as an outpatient procedure is an effective and safe option for both primary and secondary PCP prophylaxis in HIV-seropositive patients with previous adverse drug reactions.
authors.affiliation: Department of Genitourinary Medicine, Charing Cross Hospital, London, UK.
authors.forename: C M
authors.initials: CM
authors.lastname: Theodore
authors.forename: D
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Holmes
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Rodgers
authors.forename: K A
authors.initials: KA
authors.lastname: McLean
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000890:Anti-Infective Agents / Q000009:adverse effects*; D005260:Female; D006679:HIV Seropositivity / Q000276:immunology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D015662:Trimethoprim, Sulfamethoxazole Drug Combination / Q000009:adverse effects*
chemical_list: D000890:Anti-Infective Agents; D015662:Trimethoprim, Sulfamethoxazole Drug Combination