Incidence of Adverse Drug Reactions Among HIV Patients on Antiretroviral Drugs in Ethiopia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Introduction: In recent decades, AIDS-related illnesses have declined due to the widespread use of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). Despite the numerous benefits that HAART provides, it causes significant challenges for users in the form of adverse drug reactions (ADRs). Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to explore the pooled incidence of antiretroviral therapy-related adverse drugs in Ethiopia. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted on cohort studies conducted among HIV patients living in Ethiopia. The study was reported using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). A random-effects meta-analysis was used to determine the pooled incidence of ADR. Heterogeneity was assessed, and the source of variation was analyzed using subgroup and sensitivity analyses. Funnel plots and Egger's regression tests were used to investigate publication bias. Results: Based on the random effects model from 10 extracted studies, the pooled incidence rate of adverse effects of ART drugs was 5.09 (95% CI: 3.86-6.71) per 100 person-years, with significant heterogeneity (I2 = 96.4%, p < 0.0001). It was also observed to be higher in subgroups from multicenter study areas, studies employing both prospective and retrospective designs, and among children. Discussion: The findings of this systematic review and meta-analysis revealed disparities in ADR incidence rates. In addition, the findings of this review showed that the occurrence of ART-related ADR in people living with HIV is common in the healthcare system. Conclusion: This systematic review and meta-analysis highlighted the significant incidence of adverse effects among individuals diagnosed with HIV in ART clinics in Ethiopia. A comprehensive strategy and coordinated collaboration among health planners, policymakers, and the community are essential to address this issue and integrate pharmacovigilance into service provision.