Discovering that you have been diagnosed with HIV can be very overwhelming, but know that this diagnosis is just a fraction of your life story and by no means dictates who you are. With advances made in the pharmaceutical sciences, individuals living with HIV now have the opportunity to lead long and healthy lives. Consistent adherence to prescribed medication therapy further plays an important role, significantly lowering the risk of transmitting HIV to others. Engage in a conversation with your healthcare provider to gain insights into the most effective medication options tailored for your specific needs. Remember, with the right support and information, you can navigate this journey of living with HIV.

What is HIV?

HIV is a virus that targets the body's immune system. If untreated, it can compromise our ability to fight infections. In Canada, approximately 62,790 people were found to be living with HIV in 2020. This means that a simple seasonal flu could end up having devastating effects on individuals with HIV not adhering to proper treatment.

HIV can be transmitted via these 5 bodily fluids: blood, semen (pre-cum), rectal fluid, vaginal fluid, and breast milk. This means HIV can be transmitted through sex or by sharing needles or other equipment used to inject drugs.

How do I test for HIV?

Knowing your HIV status is not just a personal matter; it's a community responsibility. Regular testing stands as a crucial pillar in the collective effort to curb the spread of HIV, especially considering its asymptomatic early stages. Through testing, you not only prioritize your own health but actively contribute to fostering a safer and more enlightened community.

If you or someone you know has recently been exposed to HIV, speak with your healthcare providers at medsEXPERT regarding Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP), which is effective in preventing HIV within the first 72 hours after exposure.

Following that, undergoing an HIV test becomes instrumental in confirming the absence of transmission. Two primary types of tests—rapid testing or blood-testing—can be used to detect HIV. It's worth noting that different testing methods come with a window period, a specific timeframe post-exposure during which HIV can be accurately detected.

Rapid test (Antibody Test): A rapid test can be conducted at home or at a testing facility and usually yields results in about 10 minutes. These tests are commonly accessible at pharmacies or online platforms. The procedure involves drawing a small blood drop to detect HIV antibodies. It delivers a positive or negative result within three to 12 weeks post-exposure to HIV, with the most accurate outcomes available three months after exposure. For additional details and guidance on utilizing an HIV self-test kit, you can find more information on this website.

Blood test: In Canada, the primary blood test for detecting HIV is the antigen/antibody blood test. This involves drawing blood from a vein and examining it for HIV antigens (components of the virus) and antibodies. Notably, this testing method can accurately identify HIV within 18-45 days after exposure, offering a reliable and timely approach to understanding one's HIV status.

How is HIV treated?

HIV is treated with HIV medications known as antiretroviral medications. Antiretrovirals are a class of drugs usually used to reduce the amount of HIV in the body to undetectable levels. It is crucial to note that while these drugs don't eliminate HIV entirely, they significantly assist individuals in managing the virus and sustaining healthy lives.

Antiretroviral therapy entails a daily regimen incorporating a combination of various HIV medications. These medications fall into distinct classes, such as integrase inhibitors and protease inhibitors, each targeting different steps in the virus’ replication in the body. A person's initial HIV treatment regimen generally includes three HIV medicines from at least two different HIV drug classes. Some of the most commonly used drugs include Biktarvy, Juluca, Dovato and Genvoya.

Types of antiretroviral therapies available

Side effects

Similar to other drug therapies, HIV medications may elicit varied side effects, which can differ from person to person. Common side effects include increased cholesterol levels, diarrhea, fatty liver disease, vomiting, nausea, and more. However, many of these side effects do improve over time.

The overall benefits derived from adhering to an HIV regimen far surpass the potential side effects. Book an appointment with one of our healthcare professionals today to tailor a personalized regimen that aligns best with your individual needs and circumstances.

Mental Health Therapy

Receiving an HIV diagnosis brings forth a myriad of unprecedented challenges, including stigma, emotional distress, and a potential lack of social support, all alongside navigating the health-related aspects of living with HIV. Individuals diagnosed with HIV face a twofold increase in susceptibility to depression and anxiety. Deciding whether and when to disclose one's HIV status can be a complex and emotionally charged process. The fear of judgment or rejection can further impact mental well-being, creating a delicate balance between openness and protection.

Building a strong support system is integral to mental health. Friends, family, and healthcare professionals play crucial roles in providing understanding, empathy, and practical support for individuals navigating the emotional complexities of living with HIV. Additionally, building a reliable and trusting relationship with one’s healthcare provider is an important factor in alleviating some of the uncertainties pertaining to treatment.

Learn more