Glossary

selective pressure – this is when a factor in the environment causes one type of organism to develop and grow in preference to another. With HIV drug resistance, the presence of a drug exerts selective pressure for resistance to develop. It is based on evolution and the concept of ‘survival of the fittest’ theory developed by Charles Darwin.

PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) – using HIV drugs before sex (and after) to stop the chance of infection.

• UK guide to UK – a 24-page i-Base guide covering PrEP in detail.
  How to use PrEP. Buying PrEP online. Essential monitoring tests. Dosing options including both daily and on-demend dosing. Getting PrEP in the UK. Tips for adherence. Links for further information.
• PrEP in Scotland – New version of the PrEP guide for people in Scotland, where PrEP is available on the NHS.
• Pocket guide to PrEP – easy guide on PrEP and how to use it.
• Buying generic PrEP online. Q&A on buying generic PrEP in the UK.
• Reports and articles about all aspects of PrEP. Includes updates on access to PrEP in the UK and latest research into new drugs.

steatosis – fatty liver. Build up of fat in the liver. Steatosis worsens liver damage and makes hepatitis C harder to treat.

virological failure – the term for when viral load levels never reach undetectable, or if they rebound to higher levels after previously being undetectable. See clinical failure.

informed consent – a document that every person who participates in research is required to sign before entering the study. It outlines the details of a the study, including the known risks and benefits or any intervention. It also explains what is required during the study in terms of additional tests and clinic visits.