antiretroviirusravi

Antiretroviral therapy, often abbreviated as ART, is a combination of medications used to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. ART does not cure HIV, but it can control the virus, allowing people with HIV to live longer, healthier lives. It also reduces the risk of HIV transmission to others. ART works by preventing the virus from replicating in the body. When HIV cannot replicate, the amount of virus in the blood, known as the viral load, decreases. A low viral load means the immune system can recover and function better, making it easier to fight off infections and certain cancers.

ART typically involves taking a combination of at least three different antiretroviral drugs. These drugs belong to different classes, and using a combination of drugs from different classes is more effective at preventing the virus from becoming resistant to treatment. There are several classes of antiretroviral drugs, including nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs), non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs), protease inhibitors (PIs), integrase strand transfer inhibitors (INSTIs), and entry inhibitors. The specific combination of drugs prescribed depends on various factors, including the individual's viral load, CD4 cell count, potential drug interactions, and any existing health conditions.

Adherence to ART is crucial for its effectiveness. Missing doses or not taking medications as prescribed can lead to the virus becoming resistant to the drugs, making the treatment less effective. Consistent adherence allows ART to keep the viral load undetectable, which is associated with no risk of sexually transmitting HIV. ART regimens have become simpler over the years, with many people now able to take a single pill once a day. Regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is essential to track viral load, CD4 cell count, and overall health.