What is the first treatment tried for HIV infection?

An initial screening result needs confirmatory testing before a diagnosis is made. Once HIV is confirmed, a specialist checks the immune system, viral activity, kidney and liver health, pregnancy considerations, and other medicines or infections.

Combination antiretroviral therapy uses medicines that block different stages of HIV replication. Taking the regimen consistently helps suppress the virus and supports immune health. The exact combination is individualised, and the care team reviews side effects, interactions, and follow-up results.

Arrange prompt follow-up after a reactive result and bring a complete list of medicines, supplements, and allergies. Take treatment exactly as prescribed and discuss barriers such as nausea, travel, privacy, cost, or difficulty remembering doses before changing anything.

Use condoms and avoid sharing needles until the care team explains prevention and confirms how treatment affects transmission risk. Ask about STI Screening and whether recent partners should be tested. Emotional support and confidential counselling can be part of care.

Seek urgent help for severe breathing difficulty, confusion, sudden weakness, a severe allergic reaction, or inability to keep medicine and fluids down. Contact the HIV care team quickly for a widespread rash, fever, or yellow eyes after starting treatment.

Ask which test confirms the result, when antiretroviral therapy should begin, how the regimen interacts with other medicines, and how monitoring will work. Ask about confidentiality, partner testing, STI Screening, and support with taking treatment regularly.