A mobile game to help people stick to their HIV prevention medication

A Multisite Randomized Trial of Viral Combat: A Mobile Gaming App to Improve Adherence to PrEP

['FUNDING_R01'] · BROWN UNIVERSITY · NIH-10894722

This study is testing a fun mobile game called Viral Combat to help young people aged 15-34 remember to take their HIV prevention medication regularly, making it easier for them to stay healthy and overcome any worries they might have about taking it.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorBROWN UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PROVIDENCE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10894722 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the use of a mobile gaming app called Viral Combat to improve adherence to pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) among individuals at risk of HIV. The study aims to address the challenges that patients face in consistently taking their medication, such as stigma and misconceptions about their risk. By engaging participants aged 15-34 in a fun and interactive way, the app encourages them to take their medication as prescribed. The effectiveness of this approach will be tested in a randomized controlled trial across multiple clinical sites in the South and New England.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 15-34 who are at risk for HIV and are starting PrEP treatment.

Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk for HIV or those who are not eligible for PrEP will not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly enhance adherence to PrEP, thereby reducing the risk of HIV infection among at-risk populations.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with similar mobile health interventions aimed at improving medication adherence.

Where this research is happening

PROVIDENCE, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.