If you live with HIV, small habits make big differences. Staying healthy means taking medicines the right way, watching for interactions, and keeping up with tests and vaccines. Below are clear, practical steps you can start using today — no fluff, just things that work.
Take antiretroviral therapy (ART) exactly as prescribed. Missing doses can let the virus rebound and cause resistance. Use alarms, pill boxes, or a daily routine tied to something you already do — like brushing your teeth — to help you remember.
Watch out for drug interactions. Some HIV drugs interact with common meds: antacids and calcium or iron supplements can reduce absorption of integrase inhibitors if taken at the same time. Certain boosters (ritonavir, cobicistat) can raise levels of statins and other drugs — that can be dangerous. Tell every provider and your pharmacist you’re on ART so they can check for interactions before adding anything new.
If you start any over-the-counter supplement, ask a clinician or pharmacist first. Herbal products like St. John’s wort can lower some HIV meds and cause treatment failure.
Keep scheduled labs: viral load and CD4 count show how well treatment works. Routine blood tests also check liver and kidney health and drug side effects. Bring a list of your meds to each visit so your provider can spot problems early.
Vaccines matter. Flu shots every year, COVID vaccines, hepatitis A and B if you’re not immune, and HPV if you’re in the recommended age range. Live vaccines may be unsafe at very low CD4 counts — check with your clinic first.
Manage side effects proactively. Nausea, diarrhea, or sleep changes are common but often manageable. Don’t stop ART without talking to your provider — many side effects ease with time or after a simple change.
Mental health and support are real parts of HIV care. Depression, anxiety, or stress make it harder to stick to treatment. Connect with a counselor, peer group, or local support service. Small social supports — a friend reminding you to take meds, a community clinic with flexible hours — help more than you might expect.
Traveling? Carry a copy of your prescriptions, keep meds in original bottles, and plan refills early. Different countries have rules about HIV meds, so check ahead.
Buying meds online? Use only pharmacies that require a prescription, show a physical address, and have clear contact info. If a deal looks too good to be true, it probably is. Your clinic or pharmacist can recommend trustworthy online options.
Need help paying for meds? Ask your clinic about assistance programs, generic options, or patient support from drug manufacturers. There are often practical ways to reduce costs without risking your health.
Stay in touch with your care team, keep appointments, and speak up when something feels off. Small actions — taking meds on time, avoiding risky drug mixes, and keeping labs current — protect your health and keep you in control.
As a person living with HIV, I recently learned about the potential impact of Raltegravir on sleep quality. Raltegravir is a commonly prescribed antiretroviral medication, and some patients might experience sleep disturbances as a side effect. It's important for us to monitor our sleep patterns and discuss any concerns with our healthcare providers. Ensuring proper sleep is crucial for maintaining our overall health and well-being. So, if you're on Raltegravir and experiencing sleep issues, don't hesitate to bring it up with your doctor.
Callum Laird | Jun, 26 2023 Read More