Abstract

AIDS: Thirteen anti-HIV drugs are currently available by prescription, and most treatment regimens usually consist of a three- or four-drug combination called Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART). HAART can be very effective in people who have AIDS or symptoms of HIV infection. However, for people who feel well and are in the earlier stages of infection, the best time to begin treatment is unclear. Side effects of the drugs can be so unpleasant that quality of life is impacted. If the risk of disease progression is low, patients may want to defer treatment until it becomes necessary, as determined by monitoring viral loads and T4-cell counts regularly. While most anti-HIV drugs have been approved for twice or three times daily dosing, researchers are looking at simpler dosing schedules to make adherence easier. Viral load testing and side effects of HAART are described. Contact information is provided.