Home-Based Long-Acting Antiretroviral Treatment Offers Safe and Effective HIV Management

Recent research has demonstrated that long-acting injectable antiretroviral therapy (ART) can be administered safely and effectively in a home setting for individuals living with HIV. A study conducted by MUSC Health Infectious Diseases expert Dr. Eric Meissner, published in Clinical Infectious Diseases, found that patients receiving ART injections at home reported high satisfaction levels, comparable to those receiving treatment in clinical settings. The study involved 33 participants choosing between clinic and home administration, with most maintaining their original choice over 12 months. All participants achieved viral suppression, and no serious safety concerns arose in either group.

Typically, long-acting injectable ART given at intervals of two months has been administered exclusively in clinics. However, the study explored the feasibility of at-home treatment, which could significantly improve adherence for patients facing challenges with daily pills or transportation logistics. Dr. Meissner, an associate professor at the Medical University of South Carolina, highlighted that convenience was the primary factor influencing patients’ treatment location choices.

In the study, medications were mailed to patients’ homes, stored in refrigerators, and administered by licensed practical nurses (LPNs). Participants appreciated the consistency of care and the ease of receiving treatment at home. Despite logistical hurdles—such as insurance reimbursement for at-home treatment—the findings suggest that expanding access to home-based injections could enhance adherence and overall health outcomes for many individuals living with HIV.

While current regulations and reimbursement policies pose challenges, the encouraging results support continued efforts to integrate home-based injectable HIV treatment into routine care, offering a safe, feasible, and satisfying option for patients. The study underscores the importance of providing more flexible treatment choices to improve adherence, health outcomes, and quality of life for those managing HIV.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-04-persons-hiv-safely-effectively-antiretroviral.html