Management of HIV infection in patients with substance use problems

Ank Nijhawan, Soyun Kim, Josiah D. Rich

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

19 Scopus citations

Abstract

Although highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) has greatly reduced overall morbidity and mortality in patients with HIV, patients with substance use issues have been less likely than other patients with HIV to realize these benefits. Social obstacles (eg, lack of housing, minimal social support), and medical comorbidities (eg, mental illness, hepatitis), complicate the management of this group of patients. Not only are drug and alcohol users less likely to access medical care, initiation of HAART may be delayed due to concerns for adherence and the potential development of drug resistance. Ultimately, a multidisciplinary comprehensive approach is needed to both engage and retain this population in care. Through the integration of case management, addiction therapy, and medical treatment of HIV, we may be able to improve out-comes for patients with HIV and addiction.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)432-438
Number of pages7
JournalCurrent Infectious Disease Reports
Volume10
Issue number5
DOIs
StatePublished - 2008

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Infectious Diseases

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Management of HIV infection in patients with substance use problems'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this