The experience of taking multiple drug therapies for persons with HIV infection: the Canadian perspective

Advances in the understanding of HIV pathogenesis, clinical assessment with viral load testing, and the availability of potent combination antiretroviral therapy regimens have led to significant benefits for persons with HIV infection. Currently, the therapeutic strategy to achieve high-level suppression of viral replication involves many pills and doses each day. This regimen could adversely affect the quality of life of these clients. In reviewing the literature, it is evident that little is known about the experience of taking multiple drug therapies from the perspective of the individuals. For example, with the introduction of triple drug therapies has come constraints associated with the regimens, as well as drug interactions and short-term and long-term adverse effects. Little is known about the social and emotional impact related to successfully taking these or other therapies. Less is known regarding this experience from a Canadian perspective. This research study answered the following question: What is the experience of taking multiple drug therapies for persons with HIV infection? A phenomenological inquiry was used. A purposive sample of 19 participants was drawn from a large immunodeficiency clinic in a tertiary hospital. In-depth interviews were followed by a return interview to verify themes from the analysis. The findings revealed the complex process that these regimens demand and the major impact on clients' lives. The essence of the experience described by the participants was "learning to live with this process."