Abstract

The World Health Organization (WHO) delineates an Adverse Drug Reaction (ADR) as an unintended and
harmful response to a drug when it is used for disease prevention, diagnosis, treatment, or physiological function
modification in humans. This definition specifically excludes therapeutic failures, overdose, drug abuse,
noncompliance, and medication errors. The objective of this study is to determine the prevalence of ADRs among
HIV/AIDS patients undergoing Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART) at Bushenyi Medical Centre,
Ishaka-Adventist Hospital, and KIU Teaching Hospital in the Bushenyi district, western Uganda. Patient
interviews were conducted using structured questionnaires. A cohort of 333 patients participated in the study.
The investigation revealed a prevalence of ADRs at 13.5% (95% CI: 10.2-17.6). Among the 333 patients
interviewed, 44 reported experiencing ADRs, with a significant 97.8% of these cases occurring in female patients.
Importantly, individuals with co-morbidities had a 55.6-fold higher likelihood of developing ADRs compared to
those without any co-morbid conditions (95% CI: 2.4-1286.7). Furthermore, the study indicated an increased
risk of ADR development among patients starting HAART within the first year of treatment. In summary, our
findings highlight the notable prevalence of ADRs among females, emphasizing the need for gender-specific
initiatives to raise awareness and prevent ADRs. Regular monitoring is particularly important for patients with
co-morbidities due to the established association between co-medication and susceptibility to ADRs.
Additionally, adherence to HAART therapy is essential, as the incidence of ADRs tends to decrease over time.