Impact of an analytical treatment interruption on partners and family members of trial participants in Durban, South Africa: a qualitative study

ATI-inclusive HIV cure trials affect participants and their close social networks comprised of family members and intimate partners. Ethical trials are responsible for ensuring the safety of participants and other impacted groups. Family and partners were a critical source of support for trial participants, but have been underutilized in ATI-inclusive trials. Leveraging this existing support network in future ATI trials may improve safety while facilitating recruitment, willingness to discontinue ART during ATIs, prevent early ATI discontinuation, support adherence to frequent visits and sampling requirements, improving overall trial success.