Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is the medication given for AIDS/HIV. The treatment of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection involves the use of combination antiretroviral therapy (ART). Use of these multidrug regimens substantially reduces progression to AIDS, opportunistic infections, hospitalizations, and death. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) should be offered to all persons with HIV, including asymptomatic individuals, regardless of their immune status
Why is an Antiretroviral Medication given?
HIV/AIDS has different types of medications. One of the commonly used medications is antiretroviral therapy. The virus stops replicating once the antiretroviral medications are given. The whole immune system adapts to the process and prevents any further damage to the system. HIV drugs are given in combination for better treatment and recovery.
What are the different types of Antiretroviral Medications?
Antiretroviral medications can be classified into the following different types:
- Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors (NRTI)
- Non-Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors (NNRTI)
- Protease Inhibitors
- Entry Inhibitors
- Integrase Inhibitors
When is the right time to start Antiretroviral Medications for HIV/AIDS?
The common question arises regarding when and how long antiretroviral medications are given for HIV/AIDS. The antiretroviral medications must be taken in the following cases:
- People who are in the early stages of HIV can be given antiretroviral medications.
- HIV/AIDS patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding can be given antiretroviral medications.
- People suffering from stage 3 cancer can be given antiretroviral medications.
- People who are affected with any HIV/AIDS cancers or any infections can also be given antiretroviral medications.
How are the patients prepared for Antiretroviral Medications?
Certain steps are taken to prepare the patient for antiretroviral medications.
- The willingness of the patient to take antiretroviral medications should be known first.
- The patient must be ready to cooperate well during the antiretroviral medications.
Risks or Complications of Antiretroviral Medicines
Though Antiretroviral medications are effective for HIV/AIDS, there are few complications and risks of taking them. Some of the common risks of antiretroviral medications are as follows:
- Appetite loss can be noticed.
- Nausea sensation and vomiting.
- Rashes.
- Trouble sleeping.
- Stages of lipodystrophy can be noted.
- Diarrhea.
- Fatigue.
- High cholesterol levels.
- Mood changes.
- Bone loss.
- Blood sugar can be higher than normal.
- Pancreas and liver damage.
- Allergic reactions can be seen after intake of antiretroviral medicines.
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