HIV treatment today

Thanks to advances in medicine, people living with HIV can lead full, healthy lives with treatment that helps them to stay well and not pass on HIV.

Here is what you need to know about the simple, flexible, and effective HIV treatment options available in Scotland today:

Treatment is personal

HIV treatment is always tailored to the individual. People may change treatments over time based on:

  • Side effects
  • Other health conditions
  • Life circumstances or preferences

Regular check-ups and supportive conversations help make sure each person can access and stay on the treatment that works best for them.

HIV treatment: benefits and options
What is ART (Antiretroviral Therapy)?

Most people living with HIV take ART – a combination of medicines that stop the virus from multiplying.

Benefits of ART:

  • Lowers HIV to undetectable levels, meaning it can’t be passed on
  • Keeps the immune system strong, allowing people to live full, healthy lives
  • Prevents transmission through sex or blood
  • Safe and effective, with few side effects
  • Fits into daily life, and is discreet and easy to manage
Varieties of ART

ART comes in different forms to suit people’s preferences, lifestyles, and medical needs:

1. Single-tablet dosing

  • One pill is taken once a day
  • Combines multiple medicines into one dose
  • Common and convenient

2. Multiple-tablet dosing

  • Taken once or twice a day
  • More likely to be used if there are additional health conditions or drug resistance

3. Long-acting injections

Injections are given every two months by a healthcare professional. Ideal for those who:

  • Struggle with daily pills
  • Have an undetectable viral load
  • Want privacy or fewer treatment days

ART for pregnant people

  • Specific regimens that are safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding

Key points to remember:

  • You don’t need to know the names of every drug – just know that treatment is safe, effective, and widely available for free in all parts of Scotland.
  • People on treatment and who are undetectable cannot pass HIV on to others.
  • Supporting someone to attend appointments and take their medication is one of the best ways to help them stay healthy.

HIV treatment today is about choice, dignity, and living well.