Every copy of itself that HIV produces is slightly different. HIV copies itself extremely fast, and quite frequently a copy of HIV will be produced that is not affected by one or more drugs. This is known as a resistant virus.

How combination therapy works

Different drugs stop HIV reproducing in different ways and a combination of three or more are needed to be effective. The aim of treatment is to reduce the quantity of the virus to minimum possible, although it won't completely disappear. 

There are now an increasing number of anti-HIV drugs for doctors to use in combination therapy.

Adherence

Combination therapy only works if you take the drugs you are given on time, every time.

You can read more about adherence, including what to do if you miss a dose and tips to help you take your drugs correctly, on another page in this section of our website.

Side-effects

Many people experience short-term side-effects when they first start taking the drugs that they are prescribed, but these usually improve after a few weeks. Any long-term side-effects should be monitored by your doctor or clinic and dealt with if they occur.

Acute side-effects of anti-HIV drugs are rare, but if you experience any you should see your doctor immediately.

HIV and AIDS

What is HIV, how it is transmitted, and what are its effects on the human body? We have a range of information on HIV testing, treatment, side-effects as well as advice on living with HIV.

HIV in the UK

HIV can affect anybody, but in the UK most people with HIV come from two groups:

* men who have sex with men

• people of sub-Saharan African origin.
• Gay men are the group most affected by HIV in the UK.

However, since 2003 more of the people newly diagnosed with HIV in the UK became infected through heterosexual sex than gay sex. The majority of these became infected with HIV when they were abroad.

While these groups are high profile, it is important not to forget the other people who are living with HIV. Around 1,800 people became infected through injecting drugs. Just over 1,000 children in the country have HIV because it was passed on from their mothers, and about 700 people got infected through blood transfusions and blood products.

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