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Glossary

Selected words and phrases

virology – the study of viruses.

formulation – the physical form that makes an active drug into a medicine.

Different formulations include

  • Pills (capsules or tablets).
  • Syrups or other oral solutions.
  • Injections.
  • Powders.
  • Creams or lotions.

A co-formulation is when two active drugs are combined. For example: when two active drugs are in the same pill.

prophylaxis – a treatment taken before an illness in order to prevent it occuring. Primary prophylaxis is the terming for taking a preventative treatment before ever having had the illness. Secondary prophylaxis is the term for continuing to take a treatment to prevent the illness coming back.

WHO (World Health Organisation) – international organisation involved in global responses to HIV.

WHO website.

malignant – dangerous. A malignant cancer is a dangerous cancer that is growing.