Antiretroviral Drugs Information

Antiretroviral drugs are a class of medications used in the management of HIV infection. These drugs work by suppressing the replication of the virus, thereby helping to control the progression of the disease and improve the quality of life for individuals living with HIV.
Category
Drug
Where to get
Available with a doctor's prescription
Applicable for
Prepared by Shruti Sahoo, reviewed by Dr. Eugene Smith

Antiretroviral Drugs FAQ


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How does antiretroviral therapy work?

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is a combination of medications used to treat HIV (human immunodeficiency virus). It works by stopping HIV from reproducing. It can reduce your levels of HIV and keep your immune system healthy. It’s not a cure, but many people reach undetectable levels of HIV.

How many classes of antiretrovirals are used in art?

Multiple classes of antiretrovirals are used in ART. Two classes inhibit HIV entry, and the others inhibit one of the 3 HIV enzymes needed to replicate inside human cells; 3 classes inhibit reverse transcriptase by blocking its RNA-dependent and DNA-dependent DNA polymerase activity.

How effective are antiretroviral drugs for HIV?

Antiretroviral drugs are effective treatments for HIV. Organizations worldwide recommend that everyone who tests positive for the virus begin antiretroviral therapy (ART) as soon as possible. ART can reduce the risk of HIV-related complications, stop the virus from progressing, and help prevent further transmission.

What is antiretroviral therapy (ART) for HIV?

Using HIV medicines for treatment is called antiretroviral therapy (ART). This form of therapy is recommended for all patients with HIV by the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and the World Health Organization (WHO). This daily treatment of multiple HIV medications is an HIV regimen.

Antiretroviral Drugs References

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