Objectives:
to determine the frequency of use of complementary therapies (CT) among PWHA in Italy. To evaluate: sources of information and access to CT, range of CT utilized, subjective evaluations of efficacy and safety results, identity of practitioners, economical and logistic problems and difficulties of relationship with HIV specialists.

Methods:
800 self-compilated anonymous questionnaires with pre-codified answers were distributed by operators in 22 centers of Italian League for the Fight against Aids (L.I.L.A.). Statistical analysis foresaw double entry tables crossing of data and analysis of correlation. Results: 430 questionnaires were collected complete and adequate for analysis. Demographic and geographic patterns of the study sample reflected those of the Italian PWA cohort. 48.:1% of all responders reported a present/past use of CT or a future intention. In most users CT resulted truly complementary and did not condition suspension of conventional treatment. The therapies most frequently utilized were: homeopathy - 20%, herbalism - 18% and multivitamine therapy - 17%. Outcome reports revealed high percentages of efficacy on psychological components: sense of well-being - 48.5%, reduction of stress/fear - 36.6%, on symptoms related to the HIV syndrome: weight loss - 34.3%, diarrhoea - 14.2%, fever - 11.9% and on several laboratory parameters: CD4 count - 22.4%, hepatic enzymes - 22.4%. 82% of responders were followed by professional, specialized figures. At least 36% of responders did not reveal CT use to their HIV specialist for the following reasons: MD not interested in knowing - 13%, MD threats to suspend treatment - 11%, MD recommends against CT - 10%.

Conclusions:
CT are widely used among italian PWHA. In most cases treatments are supplied by professional figures. Users express definite expectations which are corresponded by precise benefits. The size of the study population did not permit a detailed evaluation of specific therapies. Considering the entity of the phenomenon and the clear preliminary evidence for both need and effectiveness, more extensive studies on CT use in HIV are warranted and should gain priority among authorities concerned with HIV.

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