How are antiretroviral medications used during pregnancy?

A combination of antiretroviral medications should be taken as prescribed during pregnancy in order to achieve an undetectable viral load and reduce the risk of vertical transmission. A multi-drug regimen is the only therapy which has been shown to achieve effective and sustained viral suppression for those living with HIV. It is important to realize that certain medications are contraindicated during pregnancy and that some medications require alterations in dosing during pregnancy. For this reason, people living with HIV and contemplating pregnancy as well as those who become pregnant should have their drug regimen reviewed by an infectious disease specialist. People who are inadvertently exposed to certain contraindicated medications during pregnancy may require additional surveillance. Please contact the Illinois Perinatal HIV Hotline for additional information or specific questions.