Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 14, 2026

An Affordable HIV-1 Drug Resistance Monitoring Method for Resource Limited Settings
Published on: March 30, 2014
The Antiretroviral Regimen Complexity Index. A novel method of quantifying regimen complexity
Staci Martin1, Pamela L Wolters, Sarah K Calabrese
1Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892-8200, USA. martins@mail.nih.gov
Background:
Individuals with HIV disease often must adhere to complex medication regimens. To date, regimen complexity has not been examined in the literature using standardized procedures incorporating all important elements of antiretroviral (ARV) regimens.
Objective:
This article presents a novel method of quantifying regimen complexity using objective criteria addressing the factors that may complicate adherence to ARV regimens.
Methods:
Part 1 of this article describes the development of the Antiretroviral Regimen Complexity (ARC) Index scoring system. Based on input from pediatric and adult patients, caregivers of pediatric patients, and health care professionals, this comprehensive system includes the number of medications, dosing schedules, administration methods, special instructions, and required preparations associated with ARV regimens. Weights are applied for each of these factors to produce an overall score representing the regimen's level of complexity. Part 2 of this article presents reliability and validity data for the system.
Results:
The ARC Index demonstrates excellent test-retest and interrater reliability as well as strong construct and discriminant validity. An on-line version of this system minimizes computation errors.
Conclusions:
Although modifications may be necessary for patients requiring nonstandard dosing instructions, preliminary evidence supports the utility of this measure as a reliable and valid indicator of the complexity of antiretroviral treatment regimens.
Related Concept Videos
Retrovirus Life Cycles
Dosage Regimens: Designs and Approaches
Dosage Regimen Designs: Nomograms and Tabulations
Dosage Regimen: Individualization
Drug Dosage Regimen: Overview
Typically, the starting dose and dosing interval are guided by the manufacturer's recommendations based on clinical trials conducted during and after drug...
Antiviral Nucleoside Inhibitors

