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Problem drinking and medication adherence among persons with HIV infection
R L Cook1, S M Sereika, S C Hunt
1Center for Research on Health Care, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA. cookrl@msx.upmc.edu
Journal of General Internal Medicine
|March 17, 2001
Summary
Problem drinking negatively impacts medication adherence in people with HIV. Clinicians should screen for alcohol issues to improve treatment outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Infectious Diseases
- Addiction Medicine
Background:
- Medication adherence is crucial for managing HIV infection and preventing disease progression.
- Problem drinking is a common issue that may affect health behaviors, including adherence to antiretroviral therapy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between problem drinking and medication adherence among individuals living with HIV.
- To identify specific patterns of non-adherence linked to alcohol consumption.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 212 persons with HIV infection attending outpatient clinics.
- Data were collected on self-reported problem drinking, missed medication doses, and medication timing.
Main Results:
- Nineteen percent of participants reported problem drinking. Problem drinkers were significantly more likely to take medications off schedule (45% vs. 26%).
- Heavy and hazardous drinking were significantly associated with taking medications off schedule.
- Problem drinkers were more likely to miss medications due to forgetting, running out, or consuming alcohol/drugs.
Conclusions:
- Problem drinking is linked to reduced medication adherence in people with HIV, especially regarding taking medications as scheduled.
- Healthcare providers should assess alcohol use in patients with HIV and its potential impact on adherence.
- Monitoring both alcohol consumption and medication adherence is essential for optimizing patient outcomes.