"Let's Talk About Your Meds"

Over the last several years, the treatment and management of
HIV/AIDS has become better than ever. Many new treatments and medications have become available due to extensive research and encouraging breakthroughs. Along with these advances have come some complicated medication regimens. Many times these include one or more medications, many of which require specific instructions and, occasionally, 'round-the-clock scheduling. The information about medications and their purpose can also be confusing and prompts many questions.

It is very important for a person living with HIV disease to know as much about their medications as possible -- including the dose, purpose, route of administration, side effects, drug or food interactions, etc. In addition, the time of day in which to take some medications may also be important. This is particularly relevant for the protease inhibitors, the new class of antiretrovirals, and for medications prescribed to manage opportunistic disease. At times, the strain of remembering these details, not to mention that of managing these medications and living one's daily life, may become difficult.

In order to assist persons living with HIV/AIDS to learn more about their meds, AIDS Services of Austin is offering a program entitled, "Let's Talk About Your Meds." The program will provide an opportunity to consult with a nurse or pharmacist on an individual basis. Medication information will be given during the consultation and everyone will receive a written schedule of their current medications. Participants may bring along their medications or just a list. Written information about various medications will also be available as well as an opportunity to view videos on HIV disease management.

"Let's Talk About Your Meds" will be offered on Tuesday, February 25, 6:30pm at AIDS Services of Austin. All interested persons are encouraged to register by Friday, February 21 in order to be assured of a consultation. Please call Sylvia Lopez, Wellness Program at 406-6162 for information and registration. -- Raquel Tanner, RN