The Panel recommends screening for HLA-B*5701 before starting patients on an abacavir-containing regimen, to reduce the risk of hypersensitivity reaction (AI).
HLA-B*5701-positive patients should not be prescribed abacavir (AI).
The positive status should be recorded as an abacavir allergy in the patient’s medical record (AII).
When HLA-B*5701 screening is not readily available, it remains reasonable to initiate abacavir with appropriate clinical counseling and monitoring for any signs of hypersensitivity reaction (CIII).
DHHS Panel on Antiretroviral Guidelines for adults and Adolescents.
Guidelines for the Use of Antiretroviral Agents in HIV-1-Infected adults and Adolescents. (Current version)