The last 3 years have witnessed the introduction of a number of promising pharmaco logic agents for the treatment of HIV and AIDS. These drugs are used not only to treat related symptoms and conditions but also for prophylaxis in the asymptomatic patient. It is essential that every home health care professional be familiar with the approved and investigational drugs available, as increasing numbers of home care patients are treated with them. This article describes the major drugs available to treat the commonly seen conditions accompanying HIV/AIDS diagnoses. Side effects and suggested interventions are also discussed.
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