What is the most challenging aspect of combination drug therapy for HIV disease?

The most challenging aspect of combination drug therapy for HIV disease is indeed related to the number of pills that patients need to take. Adherence to a complex regimen can be quite difficult for many individuals due to the sheer volume of medications, which often encompass multiple pills taken at various times throughout the day. This complexity can lead to missed doses, which can result in treatment failure, increased viral load, and the potential for drug resistance.

In addition, managing a strict pill schedule can disrupt daily life, making it crucial for healthcare providers to support patients in developing strategies to maintain adherence. While the other factors, such as costs, effectiveness, and availability of medications, are also significant considerations in the management of HIV, the challenge of pill burden stands out as a critical issue that directly affects a patient's ability to stick to their therapy regimen.