HIV
Start with the big picture
ART is indicated for all people with HIV, regardless of CD4 count or viral load. The preferred initial approach pairs an integrase strand transfer inhibitor—such as dolutegravir or bictegravir—with two nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors. Regimen selection and follow-up require attention to adverse effects, interactions, baseline evaluation, viral-load and CD4 monitoring, and resistance testing. The topic also covers special circumstances, including pregnancy and long-acting injectable treatment, alongside PEP and PrEP. Preventive care includes prophylaxis for selected opportunistic infections and vaccination, with live vaccines avoided at low CD4 counts. The full lesson connects these decisions into a practical overview of HIV pharmacotherapy and ongoing care.
What you'll learn
- Describe why ART is recommended regardless of CD4 count or viral load.
- Identify the preferred initial ART regimen structure and common backbone options.
- Recognize major adverse effects and interaction concerns across antiretroviral classes.
- Outline baseline evaluation, treatment monitoring, and resistance-testing considerations.
- Distinguish key approaches to PEP, PrEP, and opportunistic-infection prophylaxis.
Continue your study
Work through the complete notes and reinforce the topic with the study tools available in the full lesson.
