Antiretroviral (ARV) factsheet - 02

Some importanct facts about HIV treatment

This fact sheet from International HIV/AIDS Alliance contains basic information on antiretroviral (ARV) treatment for HIV. It explains how ARVs work to reduce the effects of HIV and allow those affected by the disease to live longer and healthier lives, but emphasises that this treatment is not a cure for HIV. It outlines the various ways in which ARVs are used, including in combination therapy, to prevent mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) and as a post-exposure prophylactic (PEP). The fact sheet is designed for use in community settings.

The benefits of ARV treatment to the individual include better quality of life, being free of opportunistic infections and being able to return to work. The fact sheet emphasises the importance of adherence. If the instructions are not followed carefully and consistently the treatment will be less effective. In particular, if a person frequently misses taking their medication, or take it at the wrong time, this can increase the likelihood of drug resistance developing. The person will then have to be moved to another, sometimes more complicated and expensive, treatment. The fact sheet points out that while a person on successful ARV treatment will have a low viral load they can still transmit the infection.

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Antiretroviral (ARV) factsheet - 02