Q and A

We answer questions about HIV treatment

i-Base can answer any question about HIV treatment.

If we don’t know the answer we will research it. And if there is no clear answer we will tell you.

Ask your question online ❯

Over 3000 questions have already been answered

These are organised into over 30 categories. Your answer may already be here.

Please check the date of the answers! Guidelines change and older answers may only be accurate for time they were posted. Some older questions have been updated, and this is clarified at the end of the post.

Important information about this service

We are very sorry that we do not answer questions about HIV TESTING or about HIV TRANSMISSION – see: Why doesn’t i-Base answer questions on HIV testing and transmission?

We also have a new online factsheet about PEP. If your question is about PEP, please look here first.

If you include an email address we might still answer some testing and transmission questions. Anonymous testing questions will not be answered or posted online.

Questions are answered by a team of treatment advocates at i-Base. We are not doctors or nurses – see: Who answers these questions?

Information is to be used in discussion with your doctor.

We use everyday language to answer your question personally. The more information you include, the better we can do this. For example, it helps to include your current CD4 count, whether you are on treatment and how long you have been HIV positive etc.

Please tell us which country you live in. This is because guidelines and treatment are different in different parts of the world.

Information we provide is based on latest treatment guidelines and research. Answers are based on best available evidence and references are included when appropriate.

If you are in the UK and worried about HIV transmission and testing or would like advice on counselling, benefits, housing or legal questions

Please contact THT Direct (0808 802 1221) or visit THT’s website.

Posting comments online

Most questions that are answered online include the option to post comments.

This is a chance to give your own perspective and experience. It is a chance to develop an interactive discussion.

  • All comments are moderated by one of the advocates employed by i-Base.
  • We aim to moderate comments every week, often this is more frequent.
  • Comments that are not related to the original post may be posted as new questions.
  • Please only include information that you are happy to be read online by anyone.
  • Unless stated otherwise, all comments are from non-medical professionals.
  • Comments may be edited for clarity, style or meaning.
  • We reserve the right not to post information that is misleading or inaccurate.
  • Abusive comments, spam or commercial advertising will not be posted online. Please be honest and post respectful comments.
  • If you are unhappy about a comment you have posted, please email us if you would like it removed.
  • The guidelines are based on those for an HON code forum.

This Q&A service is not for questions about HIV testing or HIV transmission.

Other ways we can help

  • Treatment questions can also be sent by email to questions@i-base.org.uk
  • Call us on 0808 800 6013 Mon, Tues, Wed 12-4 pm.
  • Write to HIV i-Base, 107 The Maltings, 169 Tower Bridge Road, London SE1 3LJ.
  • Our guides to combination therapy explain HIV treatment in non-technical language

i-Base is a Helpline Partnerships member.

Feedback

Your feedback and suggestions are always appreciated.

Last updated: 1 April 2023.