HIV Drug Resistance: What to Know

1. What is HIV drug resistance?

HIV drug resistance means that a certain medication used to treat HIV has stopped working. This can happen because the virus has evolved over time and changed in a way that makes it resistant to the drug.

2. What causes HIV drug resistance?

HIV drug resistance is caused by a combination of factors, including:

- The virus's ability to mutate rapidly

- Incomplete suppression of the virus with medication

- Not taking medication exactly as prescribed

- Missing doses of medication

- Stopping medication early

- Using subtherapeutic doses of medication

- Using counterfeit medications

- Drug interactions

3. What are the consequences of HIV drug resistance?

HIV drug resistance can have a number of consequences, including:

- Worsening of HIV symptoms

- Increased risk of developing acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)

- More difficult and expensive treatment options

- Increased risk of hospitalization and death

4. How can HIV drug resistance be prevented?

The best way to prevent HIV drug resistance is to take your medication exactly as prescribed and never skip a dose. You should also:

- Avoid using recreational drugs and alcohol

- Get regular checkups with your healthcare provider

- Let your healthcare provider know about all other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements

- Have a genetic test to see if you are likely to develop drug resistance

5. What if I develop HIV drug resistance?

If you develop HIV drug resistance, your healthcare provider will work with you to create a new treatment plan. This may involve switching to a different medication or stopping treatment altogether. The most important thing is to follow your healthcare provider's instructions closely.