ART — Antiretroviral Therapy for HIV-Positive Patients

What is ART and What Can it Achieve?

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is a combination of HIV medicines taken daily by HIV-positive individuals to suppress viral replication. When taken consistently, ART reduces HIV viral load to "undetectable" levels — meaning the virus cannot be detected in standard blood tests. An undetectable viral load means: the immune system (measured by CD4 count) remains healthy and recovers over time, the risk of developing AIDS-related conditions is dramatically reduced, and transmission to sexual partners is effectively eliminated (U=U: Undetectable = Untransmittable).

ART does not cure HIV — the virus remains in the body in a dormant state. It must be taken consistently for life. However, modern once-daily single-tablet regimens (particularly DTG/TAF/FTC) are highly effective, well tolerated, and compatible with a fully normal daily life.

WHO and national guidelines recommend starting ART as soon as possible after HIV diagnosis — regardless of CD4 count — because early treatment preserves immune health and reduces the risk of complications.

Related: AIDS Management · HIV Counselling · Vaccinations for HIV Patients