HIV reproduces very quickly in the human

Resistance

HIV reproduces very quickly in the human body and is prone to developing genetic mutations (changes in its genetic makeup). These mutations allow the virus to adapt to new environments. Rapid reproduction and the tendency to change and adapt mean that the virus can develop resistance to medications, if they are not taken properly. When a virus becomes resistant to a medication, that medication can no longer kill the virus.

At least three antiretroviral medications must be taken in proper doses and at the proper times to prevent HIV from reproducing and developing resistance. Once the virus becomes resistant to certain medications, those medications may never work again.

Several studies have proven that 100% compliance with the patient's antiretroviral therapy is essential to achieve maximum viral suppression. Even a rarely missed dose can dramatically affect the level of suppression, as illustrated with the following examples:

• 90% compliance may have only a 65% chance of suppressing the virus.
• 80% compliance may have only a 50% chance of suppressing the virus.

Because keeping the virus load down to an undetectable level in the blood is the goal of antiretroviral therapy, 100% compliance is essential.