Table 5.

Approaches to enhance compliance with antiretroviral therapy

1. Targeted antiretroviral medication education (written and oral) in accordance with the patient’s level of health literacy to include: indication for their cART, expectations with therapy and response to therapy, administration requirements, and anticipated side effects (helpful fact sheets can be found on http://www.aidsinfonet.org/categories)60

2. Targeted education regarding the importance of compliance/adherence for control of HIV (a helpful patient fact sheet can be found on http://www.aidsinfonet.org/fact_sheets/view/405)61

3. Medication organizing devices (pill organizers, pillboxes, unit dose packaging, blister packaging, etc)

4. Reminder devices: calendars, medication checklists, smartphone apps, alarms

5. Incorporation of medication taking with patient’s daily routine and/or selection of appropriate ART that minimizes adverse effects that disrupt daily routine

6. Involvement of family members, significant others, and caregivers when able

Abbreviations: cART, combination antiretroviral therapy; ART, antiretroviral therapy.