Testing Viral Combat, a Mobile Game to Help Improve PrEP Medication Adherence A Randomized Trial with Participants Aged 15 to 34 Receiving PrEP Care in New England and Mississippi

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the mobile game Viral Combat to see if it helps improve adherence to PrEP among diverse participants aged 15 to 34 years receiving PrEP care in clinical settings in New England and Mississippi. The study includes formative interviews with healthcare workers, clinic administrators, and patients to adapt the game for different populations and clinics. A randomized controlled trial will then compare Viral Combat to a non-PrEP related game to assess effects on biological and behavioral measures. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups. One group will receive the Multilevel Gaming Adherence Intervention, which includes the Viral Combat mobile game and adherence-based text messages for 24 weeks. The other group will receive treatment as usual plus a non-HIV related mobile game. After the trial, additional interviews will evaluate factors that could affect future use of the game in clinical settings. Participants will complete assessments including biological tests measuring tenofovir blood levels at 24 and 48 weeks, self-reported medication adherence, and medical appointment adherence. The study will also collect data on knowledge, motivation, self-efficacy, and game metrics. The total participation includes a 24-week intervention period with follow-up assessments, along with interviews before and after the trial to inform game adaptation and implementation.

A Mobile Gaming App to Improve Adherence to PrEP