Switching Antiretroviral Therapy in the Setting of Virologic Suppression: A Why and How-To Guide

Abstract

This review provides a synopsis of key clinical considerations for switching antiretroviral therapy (ART) for individuals with human immunodeficiency virus who have maintained a routinely suppressed viral load. There may be benefits but also risks involved in every ART regimen change, so strategies for prioritizing individuals for a switch based on the specific antiretroviral agents in the regimen are discussed, along with approaches to ensure maintenance of viral suppression after treatment modifications. Controversial and evolving questions in the area of ART switches and simplifications are also considered.

Keywords: Antiretroviral agents; Drug substitution; HIV; Viral load.