How to Take ART
- Take 1 tablet once daily, or as prescribed
- Best taken at the same time every day
- Efavirenz-containing regimens are usually taken:
- At night (before bedtime)
- On an empty stomach (to reduce side effects)
Adherence is critical—missing doses can lead to treatment failure and drug resistance.
If you miss a dose:
- Take it as soon as you remember
- Skip if close to next dose
- Do not double dose
Who Should Start ART?
ART is recommended for:
- All individuals diagnosed with HIV, regardless of CD4 count
- Early initiation improves long-term outcomes and reduces transmission risk
Effectiveness of ART
- Can reduce viral load to undetectable levels within months
- Significantly improves life expectancy
- Prevents HIV transmission when consistently suppressed (U=U)
Possible Side Effects
Most side effects are manageable and improve over time:
Common:
- Dizziness
- Vivid dreams or sleep disturbances (due to efavirenz)
- Nausea
- Fatigue
Less common but important:
- Mood changes or anxiety
- Liver enzyme elevation
- Skin rash
How to Manage Side Effects
- Take medication at bedtime to reduce dizziness
- Avoid high-fat meals before dosing (reduces efavirenz side effects)
- Maintain good hydration
- Report severe mood changes or persistent symptoms to your doctor
Monitoring & Follow-Up
Regular follow-up is essential:
- Viral load monitoring (to assess treatment success)
- CD4 count monitoring
- Liver and kidney function tests
- Ongoing adherence counselling