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Researchers developing breath test which could monitor adherence to treatment

It may soon be possible to monitor adherence to antiretroviral therapy or tuberculosis treatment using a simple breath test which has been developed by researchers at the University of Florida and Xhale Inc. It is hoped that the device could be particularly useful in clinical trial settings, and it could also have potential to act as an adjunct or replacement to directly observed therapy, a cornerstone of tuberculosis treatment programmes in many settings.

Antiretroviral therapy for HIV and combination antibiotic treatment for tuberculosis demand high levels of long-term adherence. Poor adherence risks the development of drug-resistant stains of HIV or tuberculosis. Patients who are committed to their therapy are most likely to achieve good levels of adherence, but there can be times when individuals require adherence support. Recall about pill taking is often not a reliable guide.

Clinical trials also require accurate information about adherence. There are a number of methods of encouraging and monitoring adherence, but many tuberculosis treatment programmes and some for HIV (particularly for drug users and other patients with a high risk of poor adherence), as well as many trials, rely upon directly observed therapy.

This can help monitor adherence and increase compliance to treatment regimens, but it is costly, labour intensive, and often unpopular with patients.

For more information see www.aidsmap.com

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