The effect of psychological distress on medication adherence in persons with HIV infection in Nigeria

Psychosomatics. 2010 Jan-Feb;51(1):68-73. doi: 10.1176/appi.psy.51.1.68.

Abstract

Background: A high level of adherence to prescribed antiretroviral (ARV) regimens is required to achieve and maintain suppression of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) replication and prevent drug resistance.

Objective: This study aimed to determine the possible relationship between psychopathology and ARV medication adherence in Nigeria.

Method: Persons with HIV infection (N=182) completed various questionnaires on sociodemographic and clinical details, general psychopathology, self-esteem, and medication adherence.

Results: Low medication adherence was reported in 26.9% of the participants; significant correlates included presence of psychopathology and perceived poor social support.

Conclusion: The success of any intervention policy for HIV-infected persons in sub-Saharan Africa must consider both low level of medication adherence and its associated factors.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Anti-Retroviral Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Depressive Disorder, Major* / diagnosis
  • Depressive Disorder, Major* / epidemiology
  • Depressive Disorder, Major* / etiology
  • Female
  • HIV Infections* / drug therapy
  • HIV Infections* / epidemiology
  • HIV Infections* / psychology
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Nigeria / epidemiology
  • Patient Compliance / statistics & numerical data*
  • Self Concept
  • Severity of Illness Index
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Anti-Retroviral Agents