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Review
. 2011 May 23;88(21-22):948-52.
doi: 10.1016/j.lfs.2010.09.025. Epub 2010 Oct 1.

Substance abuse, adherence with antiretroviral therapy, and clinical outcomes among HIV-infected individuals

Gregory M Lucas  1
Affiliations
Review

Substance abuse, adherence with antiretroviral therapy, and clinical outcomes among HIV-infected individuals

Gregory M Lucas. Life Sci. .

Abstract

Substance abuse and addiction are highly prevalent in HIV-infected individuals. Substance abuse is an important comorbidity that affects the delivery and outcomes of HIV medical management. In this paper I will review data examining the associations between substance abuse and HIV treatment and potential strategies to improve outcomes in this population that warrant further investigation. Current - but not past - substance abuse adversely affects engagement in care, acceptance of antiretroviral therapy, adherence with therapy, and long-term persistence in care. Substance abuse treatment appears to facilitate engagement in HIV care, and access to evidence-based treatment for substance abuse is central to addressing the HIV epidemic. Strategies that show promise for HIV-infected substance abusers include integrated treatment models, directly observed therapy, and incentive-based interventions.

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Figure 1
Figure 1
Conceptual model showing progression along continuum of engagement in HIV care. ART, antiretroviral therapy.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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