Study on Medication Adherence Among Adolescents on Antiretroviral Medications in Lagos State

Abstract

Worldwide, the rate of new HIV infections is highest among people between the ages of 15 and 24. Poor ART adherence increases the risk of viral drug-resistance, limits treatment efficacy and reduces future therapeutic choices. This study was carried out to determine the level of adherence among adolescents on antiretroviral medications. This study was carried out on adolescent 10-19 years who are HIV positive on ART in 3 health facilities in Lagos State, South West Nigeria providing comprehensive ART services. The sample size was determined using the Leslie Kish formula for cross-sectional studies. Data was collected using structured and pre-tested questionnaire. In-depth interview was also used to collect information from participant. Data were analyzed using SPSS for windows version 25.0. Finding from the study show that more 77.3% had optimal adherence for two months and 68.7% had optimal adherence for two weeks. Over twenty-five percent (25.3%) did not even take their medication the day before interview. The level of adherence is higher among adolescents older than 13 years (25.4% for optimal and 29.5% for sub-optimal. In conclusion, the study reveals there is a low rate of adherence amongst adolescents leading to poor clinical outcomes.