Question
How long could I live taking ARVs with an undetectable viral load?
2 June 2011. Related: All topics, Living with HIV long-term, Side effects.
Hello good people out there,
I’m on treatment and my doctor is saying I’m improving and looking better. The problem I’m having is that I at times feel suicidal because I feel may be I will be dying soon. So I feel I have nothing to live for. How long can I live if my viral load remains undetectable and I am still on drugs?
Answer
Thank you for your question.
I am sorry to hear you are having such a difficult time coming to terms with being HIV positive. The good news is that with the treatments available today can give people with HIV a near normal life expectancy and a good quality of life so you have nothing to worry about. Having HIV no longer means you will die quickly. For more information please follow this link.
Which treatments are you taking? There is one treatment called efavirenz (also know as Sustiva or Stocrin) that can cause people to feel depressed and suicidal. If you are taking this treatment then you should speak to your HIV doctor about changing your medication. For more information please follow this link.
Hi Vasko,
As long as her viral load is undetectable, then yes it’s safe to have sex without a condom. Please see here: http://i-base.info/u-equals-u/
Hey I’m in a relationship with an h.i.v person I am HIV negative.she have been on treatment for 3years it safe to have unprotected Sex
Hi Pius,
Yes its OK to drink beer, the important thing is that its in moderation.
HIV is now a very treatable health condition. There’s no reason why your life span should be any different. Please see Q10 here: http://i-base.info/qa/what-are-the-most-asked-questions
You may also find the following guide helpful: http://i-base.info/guides/side
hey am on treatment is it ok drinking beer and what can i do to maintain my body, skin and how long can i live?
Hi Portia,
If your partners viral load is undetectable, then no there’s no risk. Please see here: http://i-base.info/u-equals-u/