Transitioning to dolutegravir-based regimen: Assessing experience and effectiveness among people living with HIV, attending art center in a tertiary care hospital

Background: Dolutegravir (DTG)-based antiretroviral therapy (ART) was introduced in India’s National AIDS Control Program in 2020 for its superior efficacy and tolerability. Despite strong clinical trial data, real-world evidence on patients’ experiences and effectiveness of this regimen in Indian settings remains limited. Aims and Objectives: This study aimed to assess the experience, side-effects, adherence, and effectiveness of transitioning to a DTG-based regimen among people living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLHIV) attending a tertiary ART center in West Bengal, India. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted from June, 2025 to August, 2025 at the Fi-ART Center, Bankura Sammilani Medical College. A total of 137 PLHIV, transitioned to DTG-based ART for at least 6 months, were selected using systematic random sampling. Data were collected through interviews and medical record reviews. Experience, adherence, and effectiveness were evaluated using pre-defined criteria. Statistical analyses included Chi-square tests and binomial logistic regression. Results: Good adherence was observed in 77.5% and effectiveness in 66.4% of participants, while only 30.7% reported a good transition experience. Side effects included weight gain (26.9%), anorexia (20.4%), nausea (17.5%), and hepatic dysfunction (13.8%). Gender, education, and socioeconomic status were significantly associated with transition experience. Education emerged as a significant predictor (odds ratio=14.57, 95% confidence interval: 3.60–58.85). Conclusion: While DTG-based regimens demonstrate high adherence and effectiveness, patient preparedness and experience during transition remain suboptimal, especially among females and less educated individuals. Strengthening psychosocial support, communication strategies, and health system responsiveness is essential for optimizing DTG rollout in resource-limited settings.