Bratislav Prokić, April 2022
How is HIV treated?
HIV is treated with antiretroviral therapy (ART). ART involves taking one to two pills a day, which contain combinations of anti-HIV drugs. ART is recommended for everyone who has HIV.
When does one start with the HIV infection treatment?
People with HIV should start taking HIV medicines as soon as possible, immediately after diagnosis, regardless of the degree of immune impairment.
How do HIV drugs work?
Antiretroviral therapy prevents the multiplication of the virus in the body and quickly leads to a reduction in the number of its copies to an immeasurable level. By regularly taking therapy, HIV is prevented from destroying the immune system and harming the person, as well their sexual partners, because it cannot be transmitted sexually.
What is the benefit of HIV therapy?
Taking the therapy regularly prevents the further development of the disease and the occurrence of opportunistic infections that can be life-threatening. If treated timely, HIV infection becomes a chronic non-communicable disease with which one can have an uninterrupted life span, work, travel, as well as healthy offspring.
Are HIV drugs harmful?
Every drug has potential side effects, but the new HIV drugs have those far fewer. Most people with HIV tolerate modern antiretroviral drugs easily. If a person experiences unwanted effects, the doctor helps them change the therapy and find the one that suits them best.
Is HIV treatment free?
HIV treatment is free, namely, it is covered by health insurance. All persons who are not insured can do so based on an HIV diagnosis (with a report from an infectious disease specialist).
Is modern HIV therapy available in Serbia?
Most modern therapeutic options for HIV used in the world are also available in Serbia.
Is HIV curable?
Currently, there is no drug that completely eliminates HIV from the body.