Maximizing adherence to antiretroviral treatment is vital
and became even more important following the recognition
that multiple antiretrovirals with varying mechanisms of
action were required for continual HIV suppression.79,80
Strategies to improve adherence, including reducing pill
burden to simplify regimens, should translate into improved
quality of life.81 As an added benefit, co-formulated STRs,
when compared to the component antivirals taken separately,
may potentially reduce the development of resistance
mutations.82–86 Furthermore, an initial highly successful regimen
obviates the need to switch therapy, which may result in
experiencing new side effects that negatively impact quality
of life.87,88 As the initial antiretroviral regimen predicts successful
long-term virologic suppression, selecting the correct
therapy is critically important.