Introduction What is the difference between HIV infection and AIDS? Evaluating your health status Phase 1 - Primo-infection Phase 2 – Seropositive without symptoms Phase 3 – Seropositive with symptoms Phase 4 – AIDS Will I necessarily progress through all phases? What are CD4 cells? What is the viral load? When should I start medications to treat HIV (antiretrovirals)? How does anti-HIV treatment work? Why is it necessary to take several medications at the same time? What are the different types of antiretrovirals? How to choose the best combination of medications? How do I know if my treatment is working? Why are treatments unable to completely erradicate HIV from the body? What are the potential side-effects of antiretrovirals? Why is it sometimes necessary to change the medications in my triple therapy? What is medication resistance? What can I do to avoid resistance? Treatment adherence means: Can alternative or naturopathic/homeopathic therapies assist me in managing my HIV infection? Will I need to take medications for the rest of my life? What can I do to stay in good health? Condom breaks or tears? —Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) HIV and Depression HIV and Aging HIV and Neurocognitive Disorders KASA (Kaletra Adherance and Support Assistance)Program Links and References

There is not one single combination of medications that would apply to everyone. In the same manner that each person is an individual, the treatment MUST be individualized. The combination of medications that works for one may/may not work for you. The selection process is done taking into consideration several key factors (and following regularly updated and approved treatment guidelines reflecting research in this rapidly evolving science).

When discussing your treatment options, your physician will evaluate the following critical factors to success:

• Is this your first antiretroviral therapy?
• If you have previously taken medications…does your HIV virus have resistance (knowledge to "get around" the medication(s)? (please refer to the section What is resistance?).
• Even if you have never taken medications…does your virus have resistance? (please refer to the section What is medication resistance?).
• The currently recommended and approved medication combinations available in your province/state/country. These “guidelines” are compiled by working groups of health care professionals active in the field of HIV medicine. Treatment guidelines are developed based on research that documents efficacy, safety and tolerability of medications available.
• The potential side effects of the medications being discussed.
• You, your lifestyle, the side effects that you can/can’t possibly endure should they arise, and your personal preferences (once-a-day, twice-a-day, three-times-a-day etc.)
• Co-existing medical problems and/or medications that you are already taking may have an impact on the medication selection process.
• Medication restrictions: the number of pills, as mentioned the frequency of dosing, dietary restrictions, pill size, conservation issues (refrigerated or not), etc.
• Future medication options may be factored into the decisions made today. Certain combinations may be selected such that a backup plan or “plan B” exists if your first combination is not ultimately successful.
• And many other individual factors… including your personal concerns regarding therapy. Don’t hesitate to ask your physician and ensure that your share your concerns prior to starting your medications. You can alsor include your pharmacist as part of your “expert working group” able to answer medication related problems.

Research on HIV and aging in QC — 2013

Video - One Life

Aids/HIV & Work .pdf (french)

Your Health & You .pdf (french)

Live Better With HIV .pdf (french)

Fight against discrimination

Relay Magazine