Antiretroviral Therapy: What You Need to Know

If you or someone you love is living with HIV, antiretroviral therapy (ART) is the cornerstone of care. It’s not just a set of pills – it’s a plan that keeps the virus under control, protects the immune system, and lets you live a normal life. This page gives you the practical info you need to start, stick with, and get the most out of your ART regimen.

Getting Started with ART

First things first: ART works by hitting the virus at different stages of its life cycle. Most modern regimens combine three drugs from at least two classes, which makes it harder for the virus to become resistant. Your doctor will pick a combination based on your viral load, CD4 count, other health conditions, and even your body weight – because dosing can change with weight.

When you pick up your prescription, ask for a dosage calculator if you’re unsure about the right amount. Our site offers a simple weight‑based calculator that tells you the exact milligrams you need for drugs that adjust by kilograms. Using the correct dose lowers side‑effects and keeps the virus from bouncing back.

Don’t forget the basics: take your meds at the same time each day, keep a pillbox handy, and set phone reminders if you’re prone to forgetting. Skipping doses can give the virus a chance to mutate, which means a tougher fight later on.

Staying Safe on Your Regimen

Every medication comes with a list of possible side effects. Common ART complaints include nausea, fatigue, and mild headaches. Most of these fade after a few weeks, but if they linger, talk to your healthcare provider. Sometimes a small tweak – like switching to a once‑daily single‑tablet regimen – can make a big difference.

Drug interactions are another big piece of the puzzle. ART can interact with over‑the‑counter meds, supplements, and even certain foods. For example, St. John’s wort can lower the effectiveness of many ART drugs, while some antibiotics can raise toxicity levels. Use our interaction checker to see if your current meds clash with your ART.

Regular lab work is key. Your doctor will monitor viral load, CD4 count, liver and kidney function every few months. These numbers tell you whether the regimen is working or if a change is needed. Keep a log of your test results so you can see trends over time.

Living with HIV also means thinking about long‑term health. ART can affect bone density, cholesterol, and kidney health. Eating a balanced diet, staying active, and getting routine screenings help counteract these risks. If you’re on a regimen that includes tenofovir, for instance, your doctor might suggest a calcium‑rich diet and a bone‑density scan every couple of years.

Finally, remember you’re not alone. Support groups, both online and in‑person, provide a space to share tips, ask questions, and stay motivated. Many find that talking about challenges – like dealing with stigma or remembering doses – makes the journey easier.

Bottom line: antiretroviral therapy is a powerful tool that keeps HIV in check, but it works best when you understand dosing, watch for interactions, and stay on top of monitoring. Use the calculators, checkers, and resources on Bodyweight Fitting to tailor your regimen to your body and lifestyle. With the right plan, you can stay healthy, stay active, and keep the virus where it belongs – under control.