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


METHODS
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.


CONCLUSIONS
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.
Adewuya
Abiodun O
AO
Dept. of Psychiatry, Lagos State University College of Medicine, Ikeja 100010, Lagos, Nigeria. biodunwuya@yahoo.com
Afolabi
Mohammed O
MO
Ola
Bola A
BA
Ogundele
Olorunfemi A
OA
Ajibare
Adeola O
AO
Oladipo
Bamidele F
BF
Fakande
Ibiyemi
I
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D044966:Anti-Retroviral Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D003865:Major Depressive Disorder / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology; D005260:Female; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000523:psychology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009549:Nigeria / Q000453:epidemiology; D010349:Patient Compliance / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D012649:Self Concept; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D055815:Young Adult
D044966:Anti-Retroviral Agents