Treatment of HIV Infection: Facts About 20 Approved Drugs

Format: Fact Sheet
Institute: National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)

When AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) was first recognized in 1981, patients with the disease were unlikely to live longer than a year or two. Since then, scientists have developed an effective arsenal of drugs that can help many people infected with HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) live longer and healthier lives.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved 20 drugs to treat patients with HIV. NIAID has published an updated fact sheet describing the drugs, how they work, and possible complications, as well as new drugs in the pipeline.

The treatment and prevention of HIV is a high priority for NIAID. Research supported by NIAID has greatly advanced our understanding of HIV and how it causes AIDS. This knowledge provides the foundation for NIAID AIDS research effort and continues to support studies designed to further extend and improve the quality of life of those infected with HIV.

Next Steps
To view or download the fact sheet, visit www.niaid.nih.gov/factsheets/treat-hiv.htm.