Severe Lactic Acidosis Due to Acute Intoxication by Emtricitabine/Tenofovir Alafenamide

Abstract

A 46-year-old female with a history of generalized anxiety disorder was admitted after intentional ingestion of an unknown amount of emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide (Descovy®) in a suicidal attempt. Patient was emergently intubated secondary to severe agitation and inability to protect airways. Patient developed severe lactic acidosis early in the admission, secondary as to a possible mitochondrial toxicity. Failed attempts to fluid resuscitation with Lactate Ringer®, eventually warranted to start the patient on norepinephrine infusion. Metabolic acidosis remained refractory to bicarbonate bolus and infusion. Hypothermia and hypoglycemia were corrected. Despite the initial approach, the patient remained acidotic, and the nephrology was consulted for emergent continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT). After three days of intensive care unit stay and CRRT, the patient improved and was successfully decannulated. Her metabolic profile also showed remarkable improvement and the metabolic lactic acidosis resolved. The previous formulation of tenofovir with disoproxil fumarate is associated with severe lactic acidosis due to inhibition of mammalian mitochondrial DNA polymerase. Risk factors include liver cirrhosis, chronic kidney disease, hepatitis B and C coinfection, and metformin use. The new pharmaceutical formulation of tenofovir with alafenamide (TAF) has caused a significant decrease in the incidence of lactic acidosis. However, its real incidence and the usual plasma level to induce toxicity and mitochondrial dysfunction are unknown. The aim of this report is to highlight the risk of severe lactic acidosis with the use of TAF.

Keywords: descovy; emtricitabine; intoxication; lactic acidosis; metabolic acidosis; safety; tenofovir; toxicity.