Saturday, 15 January 2005 - 12:00 PM

This presentation is part of: Poster Session II

Predictors of Medication Adherence among HIV Positive Clients

Predictors of Medication Adherence among HIV Positive Clients

Purpose: While antiretroviral medications have dramatically prolonged the lives of HIV positive persons, they also involve complicated regimens that have proven difficult for clients to follow. Studies have shown that adherence must remain as high as 95% in order for the medications to be effective. Lack of adherence to treatment protocols can lead to the development of mutant strains of the virus that are resistant to available medications. In addition, these mutant strains can be transmitted to uninfected persons thus making them unable to benefit from the current medication regimens. In addition, lack of adherence leads to poor health outcomes.

Methods: To examine factors related to medication adherence skills, this study recruited 180 HIV positive adults receiving treatment at a large primary care and case management clinic. Utilizing the Information-Motivation-Behavioral Skills model (I-M-B)(Fisher & Fisher, 1992; 1993), measures of adherence, information, motivation, behavioral skills, and medical care issues were administered to clients. Adherence skill variables included the following: addressing problems with medication, following medication schedules and doctor’s orders, and having appropriate food available to take with medications. The primary research question assessed the extent to which compliance-related factors account for the difference in medication adherence among HIV+ adults. Multivariate analyses were computed with only those variables significantly associated on a bivariate level with adherence.

Results: Using multiple regression analyses, medication adherence was predicted by having information about adherence issues, being motivated to adhere due to feelings of perceived vulnerability, and getting medical care within the first year of being diagnosed with HIV (F[7, 130] = 10.58, p < .001). These factors accounted for 36% of the variance in medication adherence.

Implications: The results of this study support Fisher’s I-M-B model of adherence and suggest strategies for assisting HIV positive clients with their complicated medication regimens. Information concerning adherence, coping skills and regular medical care may enhance or improve health outcomes.

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