INFORMATION FOR PATIENTS 

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Questions  And Answers on Taking Antiretrovirals

Select a link Why take antiretrovirals?Why is it important to take  medications regularly?  Why do certain drugs have to be taken with food and others taken on an empty stomach?  What if you have side effects?Should you lower your drug dose if you are having side effects?Is it safe to take antiretrovirals with other medications? Is it safe to use alcohol or recreational drugs while you are on antiretroviral therapy? Why should medications be stored under specific conditions?What are some suggestions and tips to help make taking medications easier? Who should you tell if you are having problems?How can you get support and encouragement? How to obtain copies of this booklet Credits

Why take antiretrovirals?

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) belongs to a class of viruses called retroviruses. Antiretrovirals are drugs that work by interfering with the HIV life cycle. Antiretroviral drugs do not cure HIV and they do not prevent HIV transmission. When used in combination, these medications reduce the amount of virus in the blood and help to delay the progress of disease.  

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