HIV and AIDS refers to a devastating disorder of the immune system, the body's defense system against invading bacteria, viruses and other harmful organisms. HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) transforms into the late stage of HIV called AIDS (Autoimmune Immunodeficiency Disease) when white blood cells blood called CD4 lymphocytes reach an ultimate low of 200 cubic millimeters of blood. Normally, the CD4 count is between 700 and 1,000. According to the Mayo Clinic, as of 2009, 39.5 million people worldwide have HIV. However, there are specific medications to treat this condition.
Step 1
Obtain a prescription for a reverse transcription inhibitor. According to the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, reverse transcription inhibitors work to block the HIV enzyme (chemical) called reverse transcriptase from converting its precursor genetic material (RNA) to a mature form (DNA) that is able to enter and invade all the cells in your body.
Step 2
Take a protease inhibitor, fusion inhibitor or integrase inhibitor. According to the Mayo Clinic, a protease inhibitor such as saquinavir is a medication that prevents HIV from multiplying. A fusion inhibitor such as enfuvirtide prevents HIV from fusing with the normal cells in your body. An integrase inhibitor such as raltegravir prevents HIV from inserting its genetic material into your own DNA.
Step 3
Combine medications from Steps 1 and 2 to develop an individualized therapy for your HIV and AIDS. Do this only in consultation with your doctor, as she will develop a treatment plan designed for your specific case. The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease states that the highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) is a combination of antiretroviral drugs commonly used to treat HIV and AIDS.
Tips and Warnings
- Find a doctor that has extensive experience treating HIV and AIDS. Treating this difficult disease is an art which requires knowledge of successful combination therapies. Take your medications as instructed and keep your appointments with your doctor. This is crucial for successfully treating HIV and AIDS.
Things You'll Need
- Reverse transcription inhibitor
- Protease inhibitor such as saquinavir
- Fusion inhibitor such as enfuvirtide
- Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART)
