Management protocol for abacavir-related hypersensitivity reaction

OBJECTIVE: To develop an abacavir hypersensitivity reaction management protocol for the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. DATA SYNTHESIS: Conference abstracts, published literature, and manufacturer- provided materials were reviewed to define the syndrome and manifestations and to recommend steps to take when a patient develops abacavir-related reactions. RESULTS: Initial education, formalized contact and response mechanism, and intervention levels were incorporated into a protocol for CONCLUSIONS: Abacavir, newly approved agent for the treatment of HIV, has been associated with a fatal hypersensitivity reaction. Our protocol provides a mechanism to minimize progression of abacavir hypersensitivity reaction by providing a formalized management procedure.