A systematic review of antiretroviral adherence interventions for HIV-infected people who use drugs

Curr HIV/AIDS Rep. 2012 Dec;9(4):287-312. doi: 10.1007/s11904-012-0134-8.

Abstract

HIV-infected persons who use drugs (PWUDs) are particularly vulnerable for suboptimal combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) adherence. A systematic review of interventions to improve cART adherence and virologic outcomes among HIV-infected PWUDs was conducted. Among the 45 eligible studies, randomized controlled trials suggested directly administered antiretroviral therapy, medication-assisted therapy (MAT), contingency management, and multi-component, nurse-delivered interventions provided significant improved short-term adherence and virologic outcomes, but these effects were not sustained after intervention cessation. Cohort and prospective studies suggested short-term increased cART adherence with MAT. More conclusive data regarding the efficacy on cART adherence and HIV treatment outcomes using cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, peer-driven interventions and the integration of MAT into HIV clinical care are warranted. Of great concern was the virtual lack of interventions with sustained post-intervention adherence and virologic benefits. Future research directions, including the development of interventions that promote long-term improvements in adherence and virologic outcomes, are discussed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review
  • Systematic Review

MeSH terms

  • Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / drug therapy*
  • Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / epidemiology
  • Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / immunology
  • Anti-HIV Agents / administration & dosage*
  • Checklist
  • Drug Users / statistics & numerical data*
  • Female
  • HIV Seropositivity / drug therapy*
  • HIV Seropositivity / epidemiology
  • HIV Seropositivity / immunology
  • HIV-1
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Medication Adherence*
  • Patient Education as Topic
  • Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
  • United States / epidemiology
  • Viral Load

Substances

  • Anti-HIV Agents