Question

My clinic gave me Isoniazid, is it ok to take before starting ARVs?

22 October 2014. Related: All topics, Newly diagnosed, South Africa.

I have just been diagnosed and my CD4 is 470. My clinic gave me Isoniazid, is it ok to take before starting ARVs?

Answer

Answer: Robin Jakob

Hi,

I am sorry to hear about your diagnosis.

A CD4 count of 470 is  very good, in South Africa guidelines recommend that you start treatment once you CD4 falls to 350.

It is ok to take Isoniazid before starting ARVs. People with HIV often get given this because it prevents you getting TB.

You can find more information about being newly diagnosed on our website.