What key counseling point is important for patients prescribed antiretroviral therapy?

Adherence to the antiretroviral therapy regimen is critical because consistent use of the medication helps maintain effective drug levels in the body, which is essential for suppressing the viral load. If patients do not take their medications as prescribed, it can lead to suboptimal drug levels, allowing the virus to replicate and potentially develop resistance to the treatment. This drug resistance can make future treatment options less effective or more complicated, as the virus may no longer respond to the medications that were previously effective.

Maintaining adherence also supports overall treatment goals, contributing to immune system recovery and reducing the risk of transmission to others. Therefore, emphasizing the importance of taking the medications as directed—even when symptoms are not present—is a key counseling point for patients starting antiretroviral therapy.