Re: Confusion regarding ART initiation

[Guest guest]

Dear forum,

Re: /message/7986

ART is normally strted at CD4 count less than 200. But, if the

general condition of the patient appears poor I feel we are justified in

initiating ART at CD4 of even 300 or 350.

As u all are aware once initiated the person has to be on ART to his last

breath. Side effects of ART may cause people to stop treatment when they become

better. Only 1st line drugs are provided free by NACO.

If a person develops resistance to 1st line drugs then he had it. That is why we

delay ART initiation.

Dr.M.Suresh Kumar

Co Chairman, HIV-AIDS Cell

IMA Kerala State Branch.

e-mail: <drsurkur@...>