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Benefits of ARVs outweigh the risks
ARVs help to prevent the destruction of one’s immune system, thus prolonging life. PHOTO/COURTESY
There are fears associated with Anti-Retroviral (ARVs) drugs. And one of them is the association between ARVs and non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and hypertension. So is this true?
The goal and principle of treatment with ARVs is to reduce viral load in blood as much as possible and for as long as possible. Treatment should be started before the immune system is irreversibly damaged.
Destruction of immune system renders one prone to several diseases called opportunistic infections.
The need for early drug treatment is however balanced against the risk of toxicity so one is started on the treatment when they absolutely need it.
ARVs are meant to boost one’s immunity and no matter the side effects, their benefits outweigh the risks.
The quality of life one gets on these drugs is much better than not getting them when they are needed. These drugs like many others are classified. There is a class among these Anti-Retroviral called protease inhibitors.
Protease is an enzyme produced by the virus to help it multiply in the host (human). These drugs therefore put an end to this enzyme’s action which interrupts the viral multiplication. Like other ARVs, the end result is a reduction in viral load.
Drugs that fall under this category are Lopinavir, Saquinavir, Atazanavir, ritonavir and darunavir.
Some of these drugs are associated with fat redistribution, insulin resistance which translates often into diabetes, and abnormal levels of fats in the body with some drugs, much more than others. These risks are assessed by one’s doctor before they are started on treatment and often one is advised on what lifestyle changes to make (nutrition and physical activity).
It is in fact recommended that blood glucose and fats are measured before one is started on treatment, three to six months into treatment, and then annually.
It is important to ask one’s doctor or pharmacist about the risks, understand clearly how to take the medicine and possible alternatives. Ultimately, whatever medication one takes, they should endeavour to stick by the dose and never miss a dose.
The writer is a pharmacist
