HIV treatment: what works today and how to stay on track
HIV is no longer a death sentence. With modern antiretroviral therapy (ART) most people reach an undetectable viral load and live long, healthy lives. If you or someone you care about is starting treatment, here’s a clear, practical rundown of what to expect and how to manage it.
How ART works and common drug combos
ART uses a mix of drugs to block HIV at different steps of its life cycle. A typical regimen combines two backbone drugs plus a third drug from another class. Common backbones are tenofovir (TDF or TAF) + emtricitabine (or lamivudine). The third drug is often an integrase inhibitor like dolutegravir or bictegravir because they work fast and have fewer side effects.
Other drug classes you might hear about: NNRTIs (efavirenz), protease inhibitors (boosted with ritonavir or cobicistat), and older options that are now used less. Your choice depends on resistance tests, other health issues, drug interactions, and side effects.
What your doctor will check and why it matters
Before starting ART you’ll get baseline blood tests: viral load, CD4 count, kidney and liver tests, and sometimes resistance testing. After starting treatment, viral load is checked frequently until it’s undetectable (usually <50 copies/mL). CD4 is watched to make sure your immune system recovers. Routine labs also catch side effects early.
Good viral suppression not only keeps you healthy, it prevents transmission—undetectable means untransmittable (U=U). That’s a powerful reason to stay on therapy.
Practical tips: sticking with treatment, side effects, and buying meds safely
Adherence is the single biggest factor. Missed doses can allow the virus to rebound and develop resistance. Use a pillbox, phone alarms, or link meds to a daily habit (like brushing teeth). If side effects are bad, tell your provider—there are almost always alternative drugs.
Drug interactions matter. Protease inhibitors and boosters affect enzymes like CYP3A4 and can change levels of statins, some heart meds, and other prescriptions. Ask about interactions before you start any new pill or supplement (yes—grapefruit can cause problems).
Want to buy meds online? Be careful. Always use a pharmacy that requires a prescription, shows a valid license, and has clear contact info. Avoid sites with unrealistically low prices or that ship without prescription. If a Canadian pharmacy is an option, check certifications and reviews. When in doubt, ask your clinic for safe pharmacy options.
PEP and PrEP are part of prevention. PEP is an emergency 28-day course started within 72 hours after possible exposure. PrEP (daily tenofovir/emtricitabine or newer options) prevents infection for people at ongoing risk—talk to a provider to see if it’s right for you.
Bottom line: modern HIV care works—keep appointments, take meds as prescribed, watch for interactions, and only use reputable pharmacies. Talk with your healthcare team; they’ll help pick the best plan for your life and health.
