Couple-focused support to improve HIV medication adherence: a randomized controlled trial.

The objective was to assess the efficacy of a couple-based intervention to improve medication-taking behavior in a clinic population with demonstrated adherence problems. Design: A randomized controlled trial (SMART Couples Study) conducted between August 2000 and January 2004. Setting: Two HIV/AIDS outpatient clinics in New York City. Participants: Heterosexual and homosexual HIV-serodiscordant couples (n ¼ 215) in which the HIV-seropositive partner had 80% > 90% or > 95%) when compared with controls. However in most cases effects diminished with time as seen at follow-up at 3 and 6 months. The SMART Couples program significantly improved medication adherence over usual care although the level of improved adherence for many participants was still suboptimal and the effect was attenuated over time. (authors)