Some Frequent Questions on HIV Treatment

Laboratory Tests for HIV Infection

Manifestations of HIV

Management of HIV infection

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The newest treatment guidelines recommend taking combinations of anti-HIV medicines together to reduce the amount of virus circulating in the blood to undetectable levels. The dramatic results from combination trials are creating a new sense of hope for the future of managing HIV infection.

Q2. What does maximum viral suppression or "undetectable" viral load mean?

When the viral load is so low that it cannot be measured by blood tests it is called maximum viral suppression or "undetectable." That doesn't mean the virus is gone, only that the amount is so low that even the most sensitive methods cannot measure it.

Q3. I'm HIV positive and I feel good. Why should I ask my doctor about starting treatment now?

Scientists now know that HIV is constantly making copies of itself from the moment of infection (as many as 10 billion a day). So, even when you're feeling fine, the virus is doing damage to your immune system.

Q4. I've already been on treatment. Can any of the new research findings help me?

Yes, they may be able to help you. New treatment options are helping many people who have been on treatment before live longer, healthier lives. New, more accurate ways of monitoring the virus, along with new treatment options, are changing the way HIV and AIDS are treated. So whether you've been on a treatment program in the past, or are just thinking about starting therapy for the first time, ask your doctor or other healthcare provider about new treatment options.

Q5. What can I do to fight HIV and stay healthy longer?

Living a healthy life, eating right, and getting enough exercise can help. New treatment options using combinations of anti-HIV medicines are making a big difference in the lives of many people who are HIV-positive. New research recommends being aggressive in your fight against HIV and working closely with your doctor to choose a treatment program that is best for you.

Q6. Is there any flexibility in how I take my medications?

Unfortunately, no. The key to successful HIV therapy is following the treatment plan your healthcare provider prescribed. Not taking all your medications every day or stopping your treatment for even a short time can be harmful. Because HIV makes so many copies of itself in such a short time, taking a brief holiday from your drugs can allow the virus to quickly build up to high levels. And the new virus may be a resistant strain that's more difficult to fight. So, if you're finding it hard to stay with your treatment program for any reason, don't just quit taking your medicines. Let your doctor or healthcare provider know, and they may be able to help solve the problem.

Q7. What does resistance mean?

HIV is always multiplying and new virus particles are not always exact copies of the original. These are called mutations. The mutation may be able to escape the medicine trying to attack it. This mutation is said to be "resistant" to the medicine. Combinations of drugs have been successful in delaying resistance for long periods--when you take them faithfully the way your doctor recommends. And because there are more choices available today, your doctor may be able to switch your treatment program to a new combination of drugs if your current regimen stops working.

Q8. How can I know if my treatment program is working?

Keeping track of the number of CD4 cells, or T cells, is one way to tell whether your immune system is staying strong. A second way to monitor HIV is to measure the amount of virus in your blood. This is your viral load. By seeing whether the amount of virus and CD4 cell count are rising, falling, or staying the same, your healthcare provider can tell whether your medications are working. If not, he or she may be able to try a new treatment strategy.

Q9. What is "viral load" and why is it important?

Viral load is the amount of virus in the blood. Viral load is important because it tells you whether HIV disease is stable or getting worse. For example, people with a high viral load may begin to have symptoms of HIV infection or AIDS and get sick more often. Those who have a low viral load usually feel better, have more energy, and are less likely to become seriously ill. Combination therapy--several drugs taken together--can dramatically reduce viral load, in some people to a level so low that no virus can be measured. The goal of therapy is maximum viral suppression. This protects the immune system and helps you fight off resistant viral strains.

Q10. What if I get side effects from my treatment program?

Changes in your health can be caused by the virus or by your treatment, including medicines, diet, exercise, or vitamins. Some drug side effects such as headache, upset stomach, or becoming tired get better over time. Never stop taking your medicines because of side effects without telling your healthcare provider first. Other side effects may be more serious and your healthcare provider may prescribe different medicines. Before starting a treatment program, ask your doctor or other healthcare provider what side effects you might expect. There are often ways to lessen side effects that can make it easier to stay on your treatment program. Always tell your healthcare provider if you think you are having side effects.