Skidmore CA, Richardson AM, McMillan A, Robertson JR, Brettle RP; International Conference on AIDS.
Int Conf AIDS. 1992 Jul 19-24; 8: 136 (abstract no. PuB 7522).
Dept Genito-Urinary Medicine, Royal Infirmary, Edinburgh.
OBJECTIVES: 18 subjects, homosexual and IUDA were interviewed to determine which factors preducted compliance with Zidovudine. It is hypothesised that a number of psychological and physical factors will influence total non-compliance, partial or total compliance. METHOD: Subjects were selected randomly from 3 Edinburgh clinics, GUM, MMG and City Hospital. They were assigned to one of 3 categories according to information from physicians and medical notes either 1) Outright refusal to take AZT, 2) Those who have taken AZT but stopped in the absence of side effects or 3) Those who have taken AZT for at least one month. A number of validated questionnaires were used to assess factors which influence compliance. A series of parametric statistics, One-way ANOVA's and Pearson-R correlations were used to analyse the data. RESULTS: A number of non-significant trends were noted which showed that compliance with AZT was linked to satisfaction with doctor and clinic, symptoms of HIV at the time of prescription of AZT and a positive perception of the drug and its effect (p less than .01). Psychologically, those who complied best showed higher levels of fighting spirit, high levels of extraversion and were older (NS). No significant differences were found in compliance between gay men and IUDA. CONCLUSIONS: Many of the factors examined were statistically unable to predict compliance, but nevertheless gives clues as to important features in compliance with AZT. Only one factor, the perception of AZT proved successful in differentiating refusers from non-compliers from compliers. As the numbers eligible to take AZT increase, further research must be undertaken to prove and improve the safety and efficacy of this drug.
Publication Types:
Keywords:
- Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome
- HIV Infections
- HIV Seropositivity
- Humans
- Male
- Patient Compliance
- Prescriptions, Drug
- Questionnaires
- Treatment Refusal
- Zidovudine
Other ID:
UI: 102201305
From Meeting Abstracts