Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a disorder that inhibits the function of the immune system. Over time, HIV can develop into acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) if a person does not receive the correct treatment. HIV can be transmitted via sexual intercourse, as well as intravenous drug use and surgery.
In the past, HIV/AIDS greatly limited a person’s lifespan due to the substantial effect on immune function. These days, there’s a variety of effective treatments and medications that can limit the impact of the disorder and help people lead long and healthy lives.
HIV medications are included in a category of drugs called antiretroviral therapy. In most cases, patients will take a combination of medications to achieve the biggest therapeutic effect. Some common HIV drugs include:
Most people with HIV receive a combination of medications to prevent the virus from replicating within the body. Doctors look at a number of factors when choosing drugs to combine, such as possible side effects, patient medication history, and drug interactions.
By combining different antiretroviral medications, patients will receive multiple therapeutic benefits. For example, combining atazanavir (protease inhibitor) and cobicistat (pharmacokinetic enhancer) means that immune cell receptors will be more effectively blocked than if atazanavir was taken on its own. On the other hand, combining dolutegravir (INSTI) and lamivudine (NRTI) blocks two separate enzymes needed for viral replication.
While HIV medications are essential to ensure good health, they’re also associated with certain side effects. Many side effects are minor and can be easily managed. This usually includes stomach issues, headaches, problems concentrating, skin rashes, and other effects. However, some side effects can be more serious and lead to conditions like high cholesterol, which is a contributing factor in heart disease.
For most people, the benefits of HIV medicine far outweigh any risk of side effects. If you experience issues while taking a drug, talk with your doctor about possible solutions to alleviate poor effects.
Treatments for HIV have come a long way since the virus first emerged in the early 1980s. With the right therapeutic regimen, people with HIV/AIDs experience normal life expectancies and positive long-term outlooks when it comes to health and wellness.