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Patient preferences regarding antiretroviral therapy
Loren G Miller1, Heather B Huffman, Beverly A Weidmer
1Division of Infectious Diseases, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California 90509, USA. lgmiller@ucla.edu
International Journal of STD & AIDS
|September 17, 2002
Summary
Patients prioritize potent antiretroviral therapy (ART) over fewer side effects or convenience. Understanding these HIV treatment preferences is key for improving adherence and outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Pharmacology
- Patient-Centered Care
Background:
- Antiretroviral therapy (ART) for HIV infection involves numerous recommended regimens.
- Limited understanding exists regarding patient preferences for specific ART attributes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess patient preferences for antiretroviral treatment.
- To evaluate the impact of clinician-mutable adherence barriers on treatment choices.
Main Methods:
- Conducted four patient focus groups (30 participants) discussing ART preferences.
- Surveyed 31 subjects using paired comparisons to rate regimen potency, pill burden, inconvenience, and side effects.
Main Results:
- Most patients prioritized regimen potency, tolerating severe side effects, inconvenience, and high pill burden.
- Fewer side effects were preferred over less inconvenience.
- Pill burden was the least important factor among those studied.
Conclusions:
- Patient preferences for potent antiretroviral regimens should guide treatment selection.
- Incorporating patient preferences can enhance adherence and improve HIV treatment outcomes.