A new study highlights a gap between patient preference and actual use of long-acting injectable antiretroviral therapy (LAI-ART) among people with HIV (PWH).

Published in the Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes, the research found that while many patients favor injectable treatments over daily pills, only a small percentage are currently using them.

The study, led by Deanna Kerrigan, Ph.D., of George Washington University, surveyed 801 people living with HIV. Just 2.8% reported using LAI-ART. In contrast, 56.9% said they would prefer a monthly injectable option, while 68% favored injections given once every two months instead of daily oral medication.

Researchers identified several factors linked to a higher preference for injectable therapy. These included prior experience with injections, challenges with daily pill burden, attending frequent clinic visits, having a detectable viral load, and identifying as Black. Patients reporting more concerns related to HIV treatment were also more likely to prefer LAI-ART.

On the other hand, older individuals, those living farther from clinics, people with significant fear of needles, and those who did not identify as gay or straight were less likely to favor injectable options.

The findings suggest that while LAI-ART could improve treatment outcomes and quality of life, barriers to access and adoption remain, limiting its current use among patients.