CONCLUSION
We have shown that evidence of the burden of serious ADRs in SSA is
patchy and highly heterogeneous. Nevertheless, a few high-quality
studies suggest that the burden is considerable. A unique feature of the
ADR burden in this region is the frequency at which people living with
HIV appear affected, and the frequency with which ART and medicines used
in the management of opportunistic infections are implicated in this
burden. However, the risk of ADRs should be considered against the risks
associated with non-treatment64, and there is no doubt
that the benefit of these medicines massively outweigh their risk of
harm. Further characterisation of the serious ADR burden in SSA is
required, particularly in paediatric and elderly populations, and in
countries other than South Africa and Nigeria. This should ideally be
performed by conducting studies of standardised methodology.