Best treatments for hiv infections

Understanding hiv infections

HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) harms the immune system by destroying a type of white blood cell that helps the body fight infection, according to MedlinePlus. As these cells are damaged, the body becomes more vulnerable to other infections and diseases. The first signs of infection may be flu-like symptoms — such as fever, chills, rash, night sweats, muscle aches, sore throat, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, and mouth ulcers — which may come and go within two to four weeks. If the infection is not treated, it becomes chronic HIV infection, and often there are no symptoms during this stage. AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) is the final stage of infection with HIV, occurring when the immune system is badly damaged. MedlinePlus notes that a blood test can tell if you have HIV infection. There is no cure for HIV infection, but it can be treated with medicines called antiretroviral therapy (ART). The World Health Organization notes that HIV infection has become a manageable chronic health condition, enabling people living with HIV to lead long and healthy lives. This is general information, not medical advice.

Frequently asked

What treats hiv infections?

Our catalog lists 15 products that may treat hiv infections, based on NIH RxClass (MED-RT “may treat”) drug-classification data — not the verbatim FDA label. They're rated where FDA recall-safety data exists; the current top-rated option is emtriva.

What is the best-rated treatment for hiv infections?

By our independent recall-safety rating — not an efficacy measure — emtriva ranks highest among the products we list for hiv infections. Always consult a professional.

How are these treatments ranked?

By our independent score, currently based on FDA regulatory recall-safety data (the methodology blends additional sources as they come online). See the How we rate page.

What types of drugs treat hiv infections?

Treatments for hiv infections span FDA drug classes including human immunodeficiency virus 1 non-nucleoside analog reverse transcriptase inhibitor, human immunodeficiency virus integrase strand transfer inhibitor, protease inhibitor, lymphocyte growth factor, ccr5 co-receptor antagonist. Compare every option side by side, ranked by independent rating, above.

Treatment associations are derived from NIH RxClass (MED-RT “may treat”) drug-classification data — not the verbatim FDA label. This is general reference, not medical advice — always consult a licensed professional.