Antiretroviral Therapy (ART): Confidential, Long-Term HIV Treatment
A clear guide to antiretroviral therapy, the cornerstone treatment that allows people living with HIV to maintain health and live full lives.
Treatment begins with
Confidential Baseline Assessment
ART Regimen Selection
Treatment Initiation & Adherence Support
Ongoing Monitoring
ART is recommended for all people diagnosed with HIV, regardless of CD4 count, as early as possible after diagnosis.
You may need this if...
These signs may indicate that this treatment is the recommended course of care:
- A confirmed HIV-positive diagnosis, at any stage
- Starting treatment for the first time after diagnosis
- Needing to switch or adjust an existing ART regimen
- Pregnancy in an HIV-positive patient, to prevent transmission to the baby
A specialist's evaluation confirms whether this treatment is the right option for you.
What Does Antiretroviral Therapy Involve?
ART combines multiple medications to suppress HIV replication, protect immune function and allow the virus to remain undetectable with consistent daily use, delivered with complete confidentiality.
Consistent ART that achieves an undetectable viral load also prevents sexual transmission of HIV to partners.
When This Treatment is Considered
ART is recommended for all people diagnosed with HIV, regardless of CD4 count, as early as possible after diagnosis.
- A confirmed HIV-positive diagnosis, at any stage
- Starting treatment for the first time after diagnosis
- Needing to switch or adjust an existing ART regimen
- Pregnancy in an HIV-positive patient, to prevent transmission to the baby
The Care Pathway
1. Confidential Baseline Assessment
CD4 count, viral load and overall health are assessed before starting treatment.
2. ART Regimen Selection
A combination regimen is chosen based on your health profile and any other medications.
3. Treatment Initiation & Adherence Support
Treatment begins with close support to help maintain consistent daily use.
4. Ongoing Monitoring
Regular CD4 count and viral load testing confirm the treatment is working effectively.
“Your care team supports you through every stage, from evaluation to recovery and follow-up.”
Expected Benefits and Possible Risks
Consistent ART allows most people living with HIV to maintain strong immune health and a normal life expectancy.
Every treatment has potential risks. Your care team will discuss your individual risks before starting treatment.
Recovery & Follow-up
ART is a lifelong therapy rather than a fixed course, with viral suppression typically achieved within 3 to 6 months.
Your care team will schedule regular monitoring visits and provide ongoing, confidential support throughout treatment.
Follow-up testing confirms the infection has cleared and checks for any lasting effects.
Questions to Ask Your Care Team
- 1.How soon after starting ART will my viral load become undetectable?
- 2.What side effects should I expect?
- 3.How often will I need follow-up blood tests?
- 4.How is my confidentiality protected throughout treatment?
Not Sure What You Need?
Speak to a Care Guide and we'll help you choose the right specialist.
Talk to Care GuideRelated Care
A care guide can match your concern to the right infectious disease specialist.
Share your concern or existing reports. We will help you choose the right hospital, doctor and appointment.
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