365. Neurocognitive Function Change after Switching from Efavirenz to Rilpivirine in HIV-Infected Adults: A Randomized Control Trial

Abstract Background HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND) remain problematic even in the antiretroviral therapy (ART) era. Efavirenz (EFV) is well known for neuropsychiatric side effects and has been associated with worsening neurocognitive performance (NC). We hypothesized that switching from an ART regimen with EFV to one with rilpivirine (RPV) would improve NC. Methods This single-center, open-label, superiority, randomized controlled trial was conducted at Maharaj Nakorn Chiang Mai Hospital June 2018 to March 2019. HIV- infected adults (≥18 years), virologically suppressed on an EFV-containing regimen for at least 12 months, who met Frascati’s criteria of asymptomatic neurocognitive impairment (ANI), were randomized to a switching arm (RPV-containing regimen) vs. a control arm (EFV-containing regimen). The primary objective was to compare the improvement of NC at month 6 (M6) after switching. Secondary outcomes were individual NC domains, tolerability, and safety after switching regimens. Results 20 ANI participants (10 per group) completed the study. 11 participants showed NC improvement at M6: 6 in the switching arm and 5 in the control arm. Global neuro deficit scores (GDS), figure learning, and figure memory at M6 significantly improved in both arms (P < 0.05). Verbal memory and speed of information processing improved over time in the switching arm only (0.6 (0.1–1.0); P = 0.02, and 0.7 (0.1–1.2); P = 0.03, respectively). However, no significant differences between the two groups were observed. Male gender, age < 50 and initiation of ART within 5 years after diagnosis all trended toward an association with improved NC. No tolerability issues or clinical significant adverse events were reported. Conclusion Despite some positive trends, switching from an EFV-containing regimen did not significantly improve NC. This finding was consistent with previous reports. A larger study with longer follow-up may be warranted. Disclosures All authors: No reported disclosures.