- Usually, 3 drugs are used together (multi-drug therapy).
- The drugs must be given regularly and correctly, at the same time every day (good adherence or compliance).
- Once or twice daily drugs that taste pleasant and can be given as a liquid are ideal.
- The dose is calculated for body weight (or body surface area). The most common mistake is not to increase the dosage as the child grows.
- Someone must take responsibility for the medication. There must be firm parental commitment to life-long treatment.
- Educating the parents and child about correct medication is essential.
- Treatment should be started and monitored for the first 6 months by an infectious disease clinic (AIDS clinic). Follow-up can then be done at a primary care clinic.
It is most important that antiretroviral therapy is given correctly every day.