Taking your Pills
When highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) became the treatment of choice for HIV/AIDS in the mid-1990's, many viewed it as the next best thing to a cure. These standard HIV treatments of two to four medications taken in combination can virtually stop the virus in its tracks, transforming the disease from death sentence into chronic illness. But there's a catch--HAART is demanding.
According to recent studies, adherence rates of 95 percent or higher are needed for it to work. Furthermore, patients' failure to adhere to medication regimens can cause the virus to multiply rapidly and become drug resistant.
Many patients, however, find it hard to maintain such high adherence rates because of side effects, complex and rigorous dosing requirements, and psychosocial factors, according to Perry N. Halkitis, PhD, a health research psychologist. Recent studies identify HAART adherence rates ranging from 56 percent to 77 percent, depending on how it is measured. This average still measures too low.
As a person living with HIV/AIDS we should be striving for 100 percent compliance. Here are some tips that may help us to reach that goal:
Set an Alarm for the times that you are to take your meds.
You can use an alarm clock, a wrist watch or the computer.
Use a post it note- that's right good ole fashion post it's, write yourself a reminder and place it where you will see it. i.e. the bathroom mirror or the fridge or the car.
If you are in a relationship ask your spouse or partner to get involved and remind you to take your medications. The benefit is you are healthier and he/she will be happier. If you are single ask a friend or family member to help remind you.
None of us like to feel like we are being policed but these pills are the difference between being healthy or sick.
Take your meds the same time each day and or night, make it a routine so that it becomes second nature.
Use a calendar cross of the day as you take your medicines.
No matter what the method is find something that works for you. After all being sick is no fun
Peace be the Journey
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