Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is a life-saving combination of medications used to treat HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus). ART works by suppressing the replication of the virus in the body, helping the immune system stay strong and effective. While ART does not cure HIV, it significantly controls the virus, keeps the viral load low, and prevents the progression to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome).
How Does ART Work?
ART involves a combination of at least three different medications from at least two drug classes. These drugs target various stages of the HIV lifecycle, such as preventing the virus from entering cells, replicating, or spreading. Common ART drug classes include:
- Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors (NRTIs): Block the enzyme HIV needs to replicate.
- Non-Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors (NNRTIs): Bind to and alter the reverse transcriptase enzyme.
- Protease Inhibitors (PIs): Block the protease enzyme, preventing the virus from maturing.
- Integrase Strand Transfer Inhibitors (INSTIs): Prevent the virus from integrating its genetic material into the host cell’s DNA.
- Entry or Fusion Inhibitors: Block HIV from entering healthy cells.
Benefits of ART
ART can reduce the viral load to undetectable levels, which improves the individual’s health and significantly reduces the risk of transmitting HIV to others (known as undetectable = untransmittable, or U=U). ART is typically taken daily in pill form, though some newer treatments are available as long-acting injections.
The Importance of Adherence to ART
For ART to be effective, strict adherence to the prescribed regimen is essential. Missing doses or discontinuing treatment can result in drug resistance, making it more difficult to control the virus. Regular monitoring and consultations with healthcare providers are crucial to ensure the therapy remains effective and to adjust treatments if needed.
By effectively managing HIV with ART, individuals can live long, healthy lives, reducing the risk of complications and improving overall well-being.
