HIV and AIDS Treatment

HIV

Although until now there is no cure for HIV, but there are types of drugs that can slow the progression of the virus. This type of drug is named an antiretroviral (ARV). ARVs work by removing elements that the HIV virus has to multiply, and preventing the HIV virus from destroying CD4 cells. Several types of ARV drugs, including:

  • Efavirenz
  • Etravirine
  • Nevirapine
  • Lamivudine
  • Zidovudin

HIV treatment can also be used to prevent mother-to-child transmission of HIV. While taking antiretroviral drugs, the doctor will monitor the number of virus and CD4 cells to assess the patient's response to treatment. CD4 cell count are done each 3-6 months. While the HIV RNA examination was carried out since the beginning of treatment, continued every 3-4 months during the treatment period.

Patients should immediately take ARVs as soon as they are diagnosed with HIV, so that the development of the HIV virus can be controlled. Delaying treatment will only make the virus continue to damage the immune system and increase the risk of people living with HIV developing AIDS. In addition, it is important for patients to take ARVs according to the doctor's instructions. Skipping the consumption of drugs will make the HIV virus grow faster and worsen the patient's condition.

If the patient misses the schedule for taking the drug, take it as soon as he remembers, and stick to the next schedule. However, if the missed dose is quite a lot, talk to your doctor immediately. Doctors can change prescriptions or drug doses according to the patient's current condition.

HIV patients can also take more than 1 ARV drug a day. Therefore, patients need to be aware of the side effects that arise from taking this drug, including:

  • Diarrhea.
  • Nausea and vomiting.
  • Dry mouth.
  • Bone fragility.
  • High blood sugar levels.
  • Abnormal cholesterol levels.
  • Damage to muscle tissue (rhabdomyolysis).
  • Heart disease.
  • Dizzy.
  • Headache.
  • Hard to sleep.
  • Body feels tired.

HIV treatment needs to be done gradually and lasts a long time. Therefore, it never hurts to have health insurance when taking treatment. That way, you don't have to think about the cost of treatment and the treatment process can be more optimal.

No comments:

Post a Comment