Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Make sure you know about each of the medicines you take. This includes why you take it, how to take it, what you can expect while you're taking it, and any warnings about the medicine. The information provided here is general. So be sure to read the information that came with your medicine. If you have any questions or concerns, talk to your pharmacist or doctor. There are many types of antiretrovirals. Usually two or three medicines are combined in a single pill. This is called antiretroviral therapy (ART). There are many possible combinations. Most people take one or two pills a day. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) reduces the amount of virus in your body (viral load). This helps keep your immune system healthy. ART can prevent AIDS and help you live a long and healthy life. And it can help prevent the spread of HIV to others. When you take ART, the virus is slower to make copies of itself (multiply) in the body. This allows your immune system to stay healthy. But ART doesn't cure HIV. For the medicine to work, you will need to keep taking it every day. Some people feel sick to their stomach when they take these medicines. They may have belly pain or vomit. Some people have diarrhea. They may also feel tired or dizzy. All medicines can cause side effects. Many people don't have side effects. And minor side effects sometimes go away after a while. But sometimes side effects can be a problem or can be serious. If you're having problems with side effects, talk to your doctor. Your doctor may be able to lower your dose or change to a different medicine. Always be sure you get specific information on the medicine you're taking. For a full list of side effects, check the information that came with the medicine you're using. If you have questions, talk to your pharmacist or doctor. Cautions for antiretrovirals include the following: Always tell your doctor or pharmacist about all the medicines you take. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, herbs, and supplements. That information will help prevent serious problems. Always be sure you get specific information on the medicine you're taking. For a full list of warnings, check the information that came with the medicine you're using. If you have questions, talk to your pharmacist or doctor. Current as of: April 30, 2024 Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff Current as of: April 30, 2024 Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff Clinical Review Board This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Learn how we develop our content. To learn more about Ignite Healthwise, LLC, visit webmdignite.com. © 2024 Ignite Healthwise, LLC.Topic Contents
Antiretroviral Medicines for HIV
About This Medicine
What are some examples?
Why are antiretrovirals used?
How do they work?
What about side effects?
General information about side effects
What are some cautions about antiretrovirals?
General cautions for all medicines
Related Information
Credits
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Current as of: April 30, 2024 Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff Clinical Review BoardAntiretroviral Medicines for HIV
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.