Longitudinal Analysis of Adherence to First-Line Antiretroviral Therapy: Evidence of Treatment Sustainability from an Indian HIV Cohort

Abstract

Our study highlights the overall high level of medication adherence among individuals initiating ART within the Indian national program. Primary factors contributing towards poor adherence and subsequent virological failure in the proportion of individuals with poor adherence included drug toxicity, perceived stigma and poor access to health care services. Strategies that may contribute towards improved adherence include minimizing drug interruptions for medical reasons, use of newer ART regimens with better safety profiles and increasing access with more link ART centers that decentralize ART dispensing systems to individuals.