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AIDS and Behavior
Published in: AIDS and Behavior 5/2015

01-05-2015 | Original Paper

The Demand for Antiretroviral Drugs in the Illicit Marketplace: Implications for HIV Disease Management Among Vulnerable Populations

Authors: Kiyomi Tsuyuki, Hilary L. Surratt, Maria A. Levi-Minzi, Catherine L. O’Grady, Steven P. Kurtz

Published in: AIDS and Behavior | Issue 5/2015

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Abstract

The diversion of antiretroviral medications (ARVs) has implications for the integrity and success of HIV care, however little is known about the ARV illicit market. This paper aimed to identify the motivations for buying illicit ARVs and to describe market dynamics. Semi-structured interviews (n = 44) were conducted with substance-involved individuals living with HIV who have a history of purchasing ARVs on the street. Grounded theory was used to code and analyze interviews. Motivations for buying ARVs on the illicit market were: to repurchase ARVs after having diverted them for money or drugs; having limited access or low quality health care; to replace lost or ruined ARVs; and to buy a back-up stock of ARVs. This study identified various structural barriers to HIV treatment and ARV adherence that incentivized ARV diversion. Findings highlight the need to improve patient-provider relationships, ensure continuity of care, and integrate services to engage and retain high-needs populations.
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Metadata
Title
The Demand for Antiretroviral Drugs in the Illicit Marketplace: Implications for HIV Disease Management Among Vulnerable Populations
Authors
Kiyomi Tsuyuki
Hilary L. Surratt
Maria A. Levi-Minzi
Catherine L. O’Grady
Steven P. Kurtz
Publication date
01-05-2015
Publisher
Springer US
Published in
AIDS and Behavior / Issue 5/2015
Print ISSN: 1090-7165
Electronic ISSN: 1573-3254
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10461-014-0856-2

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