Common groups of HIV medicines include:
- Nucleoside or nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitors, which interfere with an enzyme HIV uses to reproduce.
- Integrase inhibitors, which prevent HIV from inserting its genetic material into human DNA.
- Protease inhibitors, which interfere with the production of mature infectious virus particles.
- Entry and attachment inhibitors, which interfere with HIV entering certain immune cells.
- Pharmacokinetic boosters, which can increase the concentration of certain HIV medicines in the body.
The specific combination is selected according to factors such as the person's medical history, other medicines, potential drug interactions, pregnancy considerations, kidney or liver function, and HIV drug resistance.
Common Reactions and When Medical Advice Matters
Treatment reactions vary between individuals and depend on the particular medicines being taken. Some effects are temporary and may improve as the body adjusts, while others require assessment by a healthcare professional.
Commonly reported effects can include:
- Nausea or stomach discomfort
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Tiredness or weakness
- Dizziness
- Changes in sleep
- Skin reactions or rash
- Changes in appetite
Some reactions can indicate a more serious problem. Severe rash, swelling, difficulty breathing, significant abdominal symptoms, yellowing of the skin or eyes, or other unusual or rapidly worsening symptoms should receive prompt medical attention. People should not stop HIV treatment on their own because of side effects without discussing the situation with their healthcare provider.
Regular monitoring may include viral load testing, CD4 cell measurements, kidney and liver function tests, and other assessments depending on the treatment regimen. Healthcare professionals can determine whether symptoms are related to HIV medicines or another condition.
Understanding the prescribed medicines, taking them consistently, reporting persistent reactions, and attending recommended medical appointments are important parts of HIV care. Modern antiretroviral therapy can help people with HIV maintain their health when taken as prescribed.