Non-standard combinations

Alternative combinations are sometimes used in individual cases or in research.

If you are already using an unusual combination that is working well, you do not need to change treatment unless there are reasons to do so.

Please ask your doctor or contact i-Base if you are unsure about your current drugs.

The following drugs are rarely used when starting ART.

Cabotegravir/rilpivirine injections

These two long-acting drugs are given by injection every 2 months.

The injections are into your the muscle in your buttocks. This is only a switch option after having an undetectable viral load on ART for more than six months. Other criteria are also important and are covered in BHIVA guidelines.

Juluca

Juluca is a two-drug combination.It includes dolutegravir plus rilpivirine in a single tablet.

It is approved as a switch option for people who have undetectable viral load for more than six months on their current ART.

Ibalizumab

Ibalizumab is a monoclonal anitbody.

This is an immune-based treatment that is given as an intravenous (IV) infusion every two weeks. It is only used for people with extensive drug resistance.

Maraviroc

Maraviroc is a CCR5 inhibitor.

It is usually only used in second-line treatment or in studies. Before using maraviroc you need a special test to check it is likely to work.

Last updated: 1 June 2022.