Adherence to zidovudine for the prevention of perinatal transmission in HIV-infected pregnant women: the impact of social network factors, side effects, and perceived treatment efficacy.

Adherence to zidovudine (ZDV) prophylaxis among 78 pregnant HIV-infected women was measured with 2 physiologic markers. Long-term adherence was measured with blood assays for macrocytosis, a clinical indicator of ZDV use; 53 women (67.9%) were adherent. Short-term adherence was measured with urine assays for ZDV; 48 women (61.5%) were adherent. Comparison of urine assay and interview data indicated that 29% had not taken the last dose that they reported. Participation in HIV support groups and disclosure to the participant's mother were associated with better adherence. These social network factors may enable HIV-infected pregnant women to cope more effectively with the multiple stressors they face and facilitate prenatal care.