Antiretroviral Therapy: What It Is, How It Works, and Which Drugs Are Used

When someone is diagnosed with antiretroviral therapy, a treatment regimen using drugs to block HIV from copying itself in the body. Also known as ART, it doesn’t cure HIV—but it turns a once-deadly diagnosis into a manageable long-term condition. Without it, HIV slowly destroys the immune system. With it, people can live nearly normal lifespans, stay healthy, and even prevent passing the virus to others.

Antiretroviral therapy isn’t one drug—it’s a mix. Most people take three or more drugs from at least two different classes. The most common types include NRTIs, nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors that stop HIV from building its genetic code, like tenofovir and zidovudine (the active ingredient in Retrovir). Then there are NNRTIs, non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors that bind directly to the virus’s enzyme, such as efavirenz. Other classes include protease inhibitors, integrase inhibitors, and entry inhibitors. Each attacks HIV at a different stage, making it harder for the virus to escape.

Why does this matter? Because HIV mutates fast. If you take just one drug, it can adapt and become resistant. That’s why combination therapy works. It’s like using multiple locks on a door—breaking one won’t get you in. This approach is why people on consistent ART often have undetectable viral loads, meaning the virus is so low it can’t be spread through sex. That’s not just medical progress—it’s life-changing.

Not all antiretroviral drugs are created equal. Some are older, with more side effects—like Retrovir, which we compare to modern NRTIs in one of our posts. Others are newer, simpler, and easier to take. Some are used in pregnancy. Some are safer for people with kidney issues. The right mix depends on your health history, other meds you take, and even your lifestyle. That’s why you won’t find one-size-fits-all advice here. Instead, you’ll find clear comparisons between drugs like zidovudine and its alternatives, so you understand what’s actually out there.

Antiretroviral therapy isn’t just about popping pills. It’s about sticking with them. Missing doses can lead to resistance. That’s why patient education matters—something nurses and clinics focus on daily. It’s also why cost and access are real concerns. If you’re buying generic versions online, you need to know how to do it safely. We’ve covered how to buy generic Retrovir, Lasix, and other meds without falling for scams. The same principles apply here.

What you’ll find below are real, practical guides—not theory. Articles that break down how these drugs compare, what side effects to watch for, how they affect your body long-term, and what alternatives exist. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, helping someone else, or just trying to understand the science, these posts give you the facts without the fluff. No jargon. No guesswork. Just what you need to know to make smart choices about HIV treatment.