The Goal of Anti-retroviral(ARV) treatment is to control the growth of the HIV for as long as possible to enable our immune system to recover and for CD4 count to increase to a level whereby they can keep the body free of opportunistic infections and prevent the development of AIDS.

• Currently there are no medicines existing that can cure AIDS but if taken correctly ARV medicines can control the HIV virus and allow you to lead a normal healthy life.

• ARV medicines do not prevent or cure Opportunities Infections. Prevention and Treatment of Opportunistic Infections is vital if you wish to remain healthy especially when immunity (CD4 count) falls to low.

• There are several types ARV medicines available so if a certain ARV medicine is not suitable for you. Your doctor has the responsibility to change the medicines so that you have a better response to treatment.

• ARV medicines may not give positive results in the short term and you may suffer some side effects at the beginning of your treatment. Do not feel discouraged. If side effects become unbearable you should discuss a change of medicine with your doctor.

• Despite the fact that ARV medicines have some limitations they are currently the best way of treating HIV/AIDS.