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
This article appears in February 14 • 1997 and February 14 • 1997 (Cover).