A randomized controlled trial of Structural Ecosystems Therapy for HIV medication adherence and substance abuse relapse prevention

Publication year: 2010
Source: Drug and Alcohol Dependence, In Press, Corrected Proof, Available online 9 June 2010

Daniel J., Feaster , Victoria B., Mitrani , Myron J., Burns , Brian E., McCabe , Ahnalee M., Brincks , …

 Background: Substance abuse in women with HIV/AIDS overshadows other priorities, including health care. Substance abuse may cause women to avoid health care systems and not adhere to their medication regimen. Methods: A randomized controlled trial tested the efficacy of Structural Ecosystems Therapy (SET) relative to a psychoeducational Health Group (HG) in 126 HIV+ women in recovery. SET, a 4-month intervention, focused on building family support for relapse prevention and HIV medication adherence. Over 12-month follow-up, women were assessed for drug use and medication adherence every 2 months; CD4 T-cell count and HIV viral load were assessed every 4 months. Results: Levels of drug use did…