NCT06370780 · University of California, Los Angeles
Exploring, Predicting, and Intervening on Long-term Viral Suppression Electronically
(EPI-LoVE)
What this study is about
Despite the widespread availability of effective antiretroviral therapy (ART) in the United States, there remains significant numbers of people living with HIV (PLWH) who fail to achieve and or maintain viral suppression (VS). Disparities persist with the lowest levels of VS among Black individuals, people who use drugs, youth ages 18-24 and people residing in rural areas.
View original scientific description
Despite the widespread availability of effective antiretroviral therapy (ART) in the United States, there remains significant numbers of people living with HIV (PLWH) who fail to achieve and or maintain viral suppression (VS). Disparities persist with the lowest levels of VS among Black individuals, people who use drugs, youth ages 18-24 and people residing in rural areas. Investigators will examine the syndemics underlying these outcomes including substance use, mental health, and barriers to HIV care including racial discrimination, stigma and rural isolation.
Interventions
OTHER
EPI LOVE
Observational cohort only
Primary outcome measures
Incidence of HIV Viral Suppression
Time frame: past 3 months
Suppression defined as having less than 200 copies of HIV per milliliter of blood.
Level of Adherence to HIV medication
Time frame: past 6 months
Adherence of at least 80% to ARV medication
Level of Adherence based on HIV appointments
Time frame: one year
Adherence defined as not missing more than 1 HIV care appointment in 1 year
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Have access to a personal smartphone device;
- Over 18 years of age;
- Speak English or Spanish;
- Living with HIV
- Are either 1) not currently virally suppressed, 2) not currently engaged in care, or 3) have one or more factors associated with viral non suppression including a history of missed appointments or viral non suppression;
- Active substance use or mental health disorder;
- Willing and able to provide written informed consent to take part in the study.
Exclusion criteria
- Unwilling or unable to provide reliable contact information;
- Unwilling to provide blood sample for HIV virology testing;
- Living with HIV and virally suppressed and not at risk of becoming unsuppressed in the near future.
Where
- Los Angeles, California
Collaborators
Florida State University, University of California, Irvine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, AIDS Healthcare Foundation, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Oct 3, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations