Health Care > How to Use Protease Inhibitors to Treat AIDS HIVRelated Photo
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Usually administered in pill form, protease inhibitors (PIs) are one of many drugs classified as "antiretroviral medications." These medicines work by stifling the reproduction of the HIV virus within the human body, helping the immune system stay strong, recover lost strength and improve the quality of life for the person fighting HIV or AIDS.
Use protease inhibitors only when recommended by your doctor, keeping in mind there is a considerable amount of disagreement as to when PIs should be used. Some doctors avoid prescribing them early in the HIV infection cycle, while others think a fast, aggressive approach is better.
Remain open to seeking a second opinion at all times.
Demystify protease inhibitors. People often incorrectly assume that severe side effects are common when, in fact, serious side effects are seen only in a minority of patients.
Prepare for the side effects associated with the use of protease inhibitors to fight HIV and AIDS. They are known to increase blood sugar, so diabetics should use them very carefully. PIs also cause shifts in body-fat distribution and spikes in cholesterol rates.
Learn about any additional side effects specific to the exact kind of PI you'll be using to treat your condition. PIs can also cause mild to severe stomach discomfort, kidney stones, diarrhea, rashes and mouth dysfunctions. A wide variety of different PIs have been developed to treat HIV and AIDS, each of which has its own specific side effects. Talk to your doctor to learn more.
Treat your HIV or AIDS condition through the use of PIs only as directed by your doctor. Always report side effects, especially if they seem more severe than you expected or if they cause you considerable discomfort. However, side effects usually begin to diminish as you continue to use the drugs.
