About Dolutegravir (DTG):
- It is an antiviral drug used with other medications to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, the virus that can cause the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
- Dolutegravir is in a class of medications called HIV integrase inhibitors. It works by decreasing the amount of HIV in your blood and increasing the number of immune cells.
- Although dolutegravir does not cure HIV, using it along with other medications may decrease your chance of developing AIDS and HIV-related illnesses such as serious infections or cancer.
- WHO has recommended the use of dolutegravir as the preferred first- and second-line HIV treatment for all population groups.
- It is more effective, easier to take and has fewer side effects than other drugs currently in use.
- Common side effects of dolutegravir may include:
- headache;
- tiredness; or
- sleep problems (insomnia).
- Some side effects can be serious. These include severe skin rashes and allergic reactions, liver problems, and drug interactions.
What is HIV/AIDS?
- AIDS is a chronic, potentially life-threatening condition caused by HIV.
- HIV attacks the body’s immune system, making a person more vulnerable to other infections and diseases.
- If HIV is not treated, it can lead to AIDS.
- Transmission:
- It is a sexually transmitted infection (STI).
- It can also be spread by contact with infected blood, and from illicit injection drug use or by sharing needles.
- It can also be spread from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.
- Treatment:
- There is currently no effective cure. Once people get HIV, they have it for life.
- But with proper medical care, HIV can be controlled. People with HIV who get effective HIV treatment (called antiretroviral therapy, or ART) can live long, healthy lives and protect their partners.
