Introduction to this edition
This is a guide for anyone interested in HIV treatment (called ART).
It is to help anyone living with HIV to feel more in control of this part of life.
The guide was written and reviewed by community activists and health professionals, including people living with HIV.
Information is based on the 2025 interim update of the UK BHIVA guidelines.
We also refer to 2026 European and US guidelines.
All guidelines stress that ART should be individualised for you.
Changes in this update include:
- All online pages have been updated and edited.
- New information is included about choice of ART and current guidelines. This includes using either dolutegravir or bictegravir for first ART.
- New information is included for people who have just been diagnosed. In the UK this includes peer advocacy services.
- New information about weight changes including as a side effect of ART.
- It also includes options for two-drug ART with some drugs. This includes cabotegravir/rilpivirine long-acting injections. These injections are now available in the UK for some people.
- The section on future drugs has been updated.
- Lenacapavir injections are now available for people with difficult drug resistance.
- The 4-page drug chart in the centre pages have been updated. Pill sizes approximate to actual size.
Detailed information about every HIV drug
ART is now recommended for everyone.
ART controls HIV so you can carry on with your life.
ART also prevents HIV transmission: Undetectable = Untransmittable (U=U).
PrEP also helps make HIV prevention a more shared experience and reduces fear of HIV.
Starting ART is now a routine next step after finding out you are HIV positive. This is one of the best ways to move forward after the shock of being diagnosed.
— Simon, London.
Last updated: 1 October 2026.