What is the treatment of HIV infection?
The treatment consists of taking antiretroviral drugs with the aim of stopping the replication of the virus and significantly recovering the immune system of infected people, allowing them to live for longer and with quality.
Treatment cannot cure, but it helps people with HIV live longer and healthier lives, while also reducing the risk of transmission to others. In Portugal it is free and available through specialist consultations.
How does it work?
HIV destroys the CD4 cells of the immune system. The loss of CD4 cells makes it difficult for the body to fight infections. In this way, antiretroviral drugs prevent the virus from multiplying, which reduces the amount of viral load in the body. Having a low or suppressed viral load allows the immune system an opportunity to recover.
There is now evidence that a person on antiretroviral treatment who has a suppressed viral load does not transmit the virus to sexual partners.
When should I start?
In Portugal, it is recommended that treatment be started soon after the diagnosis of the infection, regardless of the viral load or the value of CD4 cells. The earlier treatment is started, the greater the guarantee that the immune system remains capable, thus preventing the onset of opportunistic infections.
What is treatment adherence?
Adherence to treatment means taking medications according to your doctor's prescription.
What is its importance?
Adherence to a treatment regimen prevents HIV from multiplying and destroying the immune system. Lack of adherence contributes to the destruction of the immune system and increases the risk of drug resistance.
Source: Directorate-General for Health (DGS)