Can I stop ART?

You can stop ART, but it is not a good idea, unless your doctor said to do this.

Stopping ART can cause viral load to increase.

Within a few weeks it might be back to pre-ART levels.

• Each time you stop there is a small risk of drug resistance.
• Staying on ART is generally better for your long term health. It will keep your CD4 count high and keep HIV under control.

Please speak to your doctor if you want to stop ART.

If you stop then monitoring your CD4 count and viral load is essential.

Some research studies include having to stop ART for a short time. This usually involves very close monitoring.

Last updated: 1 September 2024.