An introduction to HIV medicines

Key points

• Taking HIV medicine keeps you healthy and helps you to lead a full and healthy life.
• There are several types of antiretrovirals. Taking a combination of these (antiretroviral therapy, or ART) stops HIV at various points of its lifecycle.
• It's recommended you start taking HIV medicine as soon as you are diagnosed with HIV.
• You will usually get your HIV medication at your regular hospital clinic appointments.
• For HIV medicine to work properly, you need to take it as prescribed. The best way to remember to take it is to make it part of your daily routine.
• Most people do not get side effects from antiretrovirals, but for those who do, these are usually mild.
• Some types of hormonal contraception might not work properly when you are taking certain HIV medicines.
• If you are thinking about having a baby, you should speak to your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist about this.