Prepared by: Bratislav Prokić, August 2022
Review: Dr. Jovana Milić,
Metabolic clinic for HIV in Modena, Italy
What are the most common reasons for skipping a dose of HIV medication?
The most common reason why many people skip a dose is they simply forget to take it. Then you have to ask yourself: What happened that caused me to forget to take the therapy? You can learn something from that experience and prevent it from happening again.
The effectiveness of therapy depends on your discipline and commitment to regular and correct use of medications.
Here are some tips for taking therapy regularly.
Connect therapy to a daily activity
You may find it easier to get into the habit of taking your HIV treatment regularly if you tie it to a habit, such as brushing your teeth, eating breakfast, taking a break from work, or going to bed.
Set an alarm on your phone or download the app
An alarm can help you take your therapy at the same time. This can also be done by an application like life4me+, which can be downloaded using the Apple or Google store, and which Potent translated into Serbian.
Use a pill dispenser
The dispensers have separate compartments where you can place each dose of your HIV medications and any other medications you may be taking. Many dispensers have compartments for each day of the week. That way you can check if you have taken your therapy that day. When using the dispenser, make sure the pills are not exposed to high temperature or moisture.
Have spare doses available
Keep spare doses in your bag, at work, at a friend’s house or in your car in case you forget to take your pills with you. It is important to keep medicines out of the reach of children, not to expose them to high temperature and humidity, and mind the expiration date.
Planning a night out
If you need to take medicine after going out, set an alarm on your phone or ask a friend to remind you. Be aware that nightclub staff may not recognize that it is a drug and put you in an uncomfortable situation. You may decide to take the medicine an hour or two earlier or later than your usual appointment.
Be prepared when you travel
A change in routine may affect the regular use of your medication. Even if you don’t usually need phone reminders or dozers, they might help you while you’re away. If you are traveling with people who do not know about your therapy, plan how to take your medication in privacy.
For international flights
Carry enough medication and keep a few extra doses in your carry-on in case your suitcase gets lost. It makes sense to bring a doctor’s report stating that the medication is for personal use. If you are changing zones, and you have been taking therapy, e.g. with breakfast, stick to your routine and continue taking therapy with breakfast in the new time zone.
In case of loss of medicines abroad
Obtaining antiretroviral drugs abroad is not always easy. You can contact local HIV clinics, non-governmental organizations, or contact the Potent organization for help.
Get help
Talk to a doctor, pharmacist, psychologist or peer counselor at Potent about the problems you are having with the regularity of taking antiretroviral drugs.
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