Antiretroviral therapy (ART)

Definition

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is a medical treatment designed to manage and control HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) infection. It involves the use of a combination of antiretroviral drugs that target various stages of the HIV lifecycle, thereby reducing viral load, improving immune function, and preventing the progression to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). ART has transformed HIV from a fatal disease to a manageable chronic condition.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. ART typically involves a regimen of at least three antiretroviral drugs from different classes to reduce the risk of drug resistance.
2. The primary goals of ART are to suppress viral load to undetectable levels, restore immune function, and improve quality of life for those living with HIV.
3. Adherence to ART is crucial; missing doses can lead to drug resistance and treatment failure.
4. ART is recommended for all individuals diagnosed with HIV, regardless of their CD4 cell count, based on current guidelines.
5. In addition to treating HIV, ART also plays a significant role in preventing transmission of the virus to others, especially through sexual contact.

Review Questions

• What are the main goals of antiretroviral therapy in the management of HIV infection?
  • The main goals of antiretroviral therapy are to suppress the viral load to undetectable levels, which helps prevent the progression to AIDS and improves immune function. By achieving an undetectable viral load, individuals living with HIV can lead healthier lives and reduce the risk of transmitting the virus to others. Moreover, effective ART can significantly enhance the quality of life for those infected with HIV.
• Discuss the importance of drug adherence in antiretroviral therapy and its impact on treatment outcomes.
  • Drug adherence is crucial in antiretroviral therapy because consistent intake of medications is necessary to maintain viral suppression and prevent drug resistance. When patients miss doses or stop treatment, it can lead to increased viral replication and the potential development of resistant strains of HIV. This not only complicates treatment but also increases the risk of transmission to others. Therefore, promoting adherence is a key component of effective HIV management.
• Evaluate how antiretroviral therapy has changed the prognosis for individuals diagnosed with HIV over the past few decades.
  • Antiretroviral therapy has dramatically improved the prognosis for individuals diagnosed with HIV by transforming it from a fatal disease into a manageable chronic condition. Since its introduction, ART has significantly reduced morbidity and mortality associated with HIV infection, allowing individuals to live longer and healthier lives. Furthermore, ART has played an essential role in decreasing transmission rates through treatment as prevention strategies. The overall impact has been profound, resulting in increased life expectancy and better quality of life for those affected by HIV.

Related terms

HIV:

HIV is a virus that attacks the immune system, specifically targeting CD4 cells, which are essential for immune defense against infections.

AIDS: AIDS is the most severe phase of HIV infection, characterized by a severely weakened immune system and increased susceptibility to opportunistic infections and certain cancers.

Antiretroviral drugs: These are medications used in the treatment of HIV that work by inhibiting various steps in the HIV lifecycle, including entry into cells, replication, and assembly.