title: Social networks of substance users with HIV infection: application of the Norbeck Social Support Scale.
abstract: The role of social support networks in medication adherence among HIV-infected substance users remains understudied. In this secondary data analysis, the authors sought to determine the relationship between social support networks and antiretroviral adherence among HIV-infected substance abusers receiving methadone. They analyzed data collected in a 24-week study of 76 methadone-maintained, HIV-infected substance abusers randomized to directly observed antiretroviral therapy or treatment as usual. The authors used logistic regression to examine the relationship between social support networks and self-reported antiretroviral adherence. Their results showed that study participants had an average of 1.36 social network members (SD = 1.4); 34% of participants had at least one drug user and 25% had at least one HIV-infected person in their network. The presence of network drug users and HIV-infected network members was associated with less antiretroviral medication adherence (p < .05). The authors conclude that both social network density and characteristics of network members have implications for medication adherence.
authors: University of Missouri–Kansas City, School of Nursing, 2497 Charlotte, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA. kellypj@umkc.edu
authors: Patricia J
authors: PJ
authors: Kelly
authors: Megha
authors: M
authors: Ramaswamy
authors: Xuan
authors: X
authors: Li
authors: Alain H
authors: AH
authors: Litwin
authors: Karina M
authors: KM
authors: Berg
authors: Julia H
authors: JH
authors: Arnsten
mesh_terms: D019380:Anti-HIV Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000150:complications* / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000523:psychology; D006801:Humans; D010349:Patient Compliance; D012944:Social Support; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000150:complications* / Q000523:psychology
chemical_list: D019380:Anti-HIV Agents