HIV

HIV & AIDS: Understanding the Condition and Taking Control

Receiving a diagnosis of HIV or AIDS can feel overwhelming—but with proper treatment and support, these conditions are chronic yet manageable. Thanks to modern medicine, many people with HIV live long, healthy, and fulfilling lives.

What Are HIV and AIDS?

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) targets the immune system, specifically the CD4 cells that help the body fight infections. Once HIV enters the body, it hijacks healthy cells to make copies of itself, gradually weakening the immune defenses.

If left untreated, HIV can progress over time into AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome)—the most advanced stage of the disease, where the immune system becomes too weak to fend off infections and certain cancers.

HIV is spread only through specific bodily fluids: blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk—not through casual contact.

How Is HIV Treated?

While there’s currently no cure, antiretroviral therapy (ART) is highly effective at controlling HIV. These medications prevent the virus from multiplying, allowing the immune system to recover and stay strong.

✅ Three Essentials for Living Well with HIV

  1. Stay on Top of Your Checkups

    • Routine lab work helps monitor your immune health and treatment effectiveness.

  2. Practice Healthy Habits

    • A balanced diet, regular activity, and good sleep all support your immune system.

  3. Take Medications as Prescribed

    • Stick to your dosing schedule—same time, every day—for best results.

With early diagnosis and consistent treatment, HIV doesn’t define your future—you remain in charge. Specialty pharmacies are here to support you with education, medication management, and compassionate care every step of the way.

✅ Treatment Checklist

Before Starting Treatment:

  • [ ] Meet with your healthcare provider to confirm diagnosis and treatment plan

  • [ ] Understand the purpose of your medication and how it works

  • [ ] Review all other prescriptions and over-the-counter drugs you take

  • [ ] Ask about expected benefits, side effects, and how to handle missed doses

  • [ ] Arrange any required lab work or baseline assessments

During Treatment:

  • [ ] Take your medication exactly as prescribed (dose, timing, food instructions)

  • [ ] Set daily reminders or alarms to stay on schedule

  • [ ] Record any side effects and talk to your provider if they persist

  • [ ] Stay hydrated and follow lifestyle or dietary recommendations

  • [ ] Keep all follow-up appointments and lab tests

Ongoing Support:

  • [ ] Order medication refills before running out

  • [ ] Reach out to your pharmacy or care team with any questions

  • [ ] Stay up-to-date with vaccines or screenings as advised

  • [ ] Prioritize self-care: healthy meals, stress management, and rest

Sources

  • "About HIV," Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, last accessed Feb. 1, 2024.

  • "HIV and AIDS," World Health Organization, last accessed Feb. 1, 2024.