TREATMENT

Antiretroviral therapy (ART)

Treatment Summary

Antiretroviral therapy, usually called ART, is the treatment used for HIV. It does not cure HIV, but it can lower the amount of virus in the body to an undetectable level, protect the immune system, and allow people living with HIV to live long and healthy lives.

Treatment Goal

The main goal of treatment is to get your viral load down to undetectable. This means the virus is controlled, your immune system is protected, and you can expect a normal or near-normal life expectancy if treatment is continued. If your viral load stays undetectable, you cannot pass HIV on to a sexual partner, sometimes called U equals U, or Undetectable equals Untransmittable.

Approach

HIV treatment involves taking anti-HIV medicines every day for life, unless your HIV specialist recommends another approved option such as long-acting injections. Treatment is usually started as soon as possible after diagnosis. When taken as prescribed, ART stops HIV from multiplying, helps the body stay well, and prevents HIV from being passed on through sex once the viral load is undetectable.

Availability In Ireland

HIV treatment is available through the Irish public health system and is free at the point of use for people receiving HIV care. In Ireland, HIV is usually managed through specialist hospital HIV clinics, with support from GPs, sexual health clinics, pharmacists, and other services as needed. If you think you may have HIV, a GP or sexual health clinic can arrange testing and referral. PrEP is available through sexual health clinics and some other services, but waiting times can be an issue in some areas. PEP is available urgently through sexual health services and emergency departments and should be started within 72 hours of possible exposure.