Tag: Arvs

According to the World Health Organization, modern antiretroviral therapy (ART) has transformed HIV from a fatal disease into a manageable, chronic condition. This medical advancement, however, brings with it a critical question for many living with the virus: Are ARVs taken for life? The short answer is yes, consistent and lifelong adherence to treatment is currently required to maintain health and prevent viral rebound.

While antiretroviral therapy (ART) has transformed HIV into a manageable, chronic condition for millions, it is still crucial to understand what are the negative effects of antiretroviral drugs. Most side effects are manageable and diminish over time, but some can be serious or impact a person's quality of life.

Globally, an estimated 31.6 million people were accessing antiretroviral therapy (ART) in 2024 [1.9.1, 1.9.3]. For many on this life-saving treatment, a common question arises: is it good to take ARVs at night? The answer depends on the specific medication and individual side effects.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a person with HIV who achieves and maintains an undetectable viral load with ARV treatment cannot transmit the virus sexually. Knowing how to tell if my ARVs are working is crucial for optimizing health outcomes, preventing progression to AIDS, and achieving this undetectable status.

According to research published by the National Institutes of Health, older antiretroviral (ARV) medications were linked to lipodystrophy, a syndrome of abnormal fat redistribution, but newer ARVs change body shape differently. Today, the risk of dramatic fat loss is minimal, though some modern treatments are associated with weight gain in certain individuals. Navigating these potential changes is a key part of modern HIV care.

According to the World Health Organization, the increased use of antiretroviral therapy (ART) has been accompanied by a rise in HIV drug resistance, which can jeopardize treatment efficacy. It is crucial for individuals and healthcare providers to understand **what stops ARVs from working** to ensure sustained viral suppression and effective treatment.

Since the introduction of effective antiretroviral therapy (ART), HIV has transformed from a fatal disease into a manageable, chronic condition. This is largely because ARVs help control the virus, but what happens to your body when you take ARVs? These powerful medications work to halt viral replication, leading to significant improvements in health and a drastically improved quality of life for people living with HIV.

Because HIV affects the immune system, people taking antiretroviral (ARV) medications must be mindful of their diet [1.2.1]. Answering the question 'What not to eat when on ARVs?' is critical, as certain foods and supplements can impact medication effectiveness or increase side effects [1.3.2].