Are you concerned about HIV prevention, treatment, or support options in the United States? Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) remains a significant health issue, but advances in medical care have dramatically improved outcomes. Today, with early diagnosis, effective treatment, and proper support, people living with HIV can lead long, healthy lives.
What Is HIV?
HIV is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system, specifically the CD4 cells (T cells), which help the immune system fight off infections. If untreated, HIV can lead to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). However, with proper medical care, HIV can be controlled. When treated effectively, HIV-positive individuals can maintain an undetectable viral load, meaning the virus is not transmissible through sex (“Undetectable = Untransmittable”).
Can You Take Biktarvy to Prevent HIV?
Biktarvy is a prescription medication commonly used to treat people who are already living with HIV. It is not FDA-approved for PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis)—a preventive treatment taken by HIV-negative individuals to reduce the risk of contracting the virus.
For HIV prevention, the approved medications are:
- Truvada (emtricitabine/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate)
- Descovy (emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide) – approved for men and transgender women.
If you are HIV-negative and looking to protect yourself, talk to a healthcare provider about PrEP options. Daily use of these medications can reduce the risk of acquiring HIV from sex by about 99%.
What About Post-Exposure?
If you think you’ve been exposed to HIV, PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) is a medication regimen that must be started within 72 hours of exposure and taken for 28 days. It may include drugs like Truvada and Isentress but not typically Biktarvy.
HIV Prevention Therapy in the U.S.
HIV prevention therapies go beyond medication. There are several tools recommended by the CDC.
- PrEP (daily pill or long-acting injection)
- Condom use during sex
- Regular HIV testing
- Needle exchange programs
- Education and counseling services
Insurance often covers PrEP, and assistance programs are available for the uninsured. Many community health centers and sexual health clinics across the country offer free or low-cost access.
HIV Treatment: Finding a Doctor Near You
If you’ve been diagnosed with HIV, starting treatment as soon as possible is crucial. Modern HIV treatment involves antiretroviral therapy (ART)—a combination of medications that suppress the virus.
How to Find HIV Treatment Doctors Near You
There are some ways to find trusted HIV care providers.
- HRSA HIV/AIDS Provider Locator (Find HIV care clinics in your area)
- State and local health departments
- Community-based HIV/AIDS organizations
- Telehealth services like Nurx or PlushCare, which offer virtual appointments and prescription management
Don’t wait to begin treatment. Early care significantly lowers health risks and transmission chances.
Life Insurance for People Living with HIV
Securing life insurance with HIV was once nearly impossible, but things have changed.
Can You Get Life Insurance With HIV?
Yes, many insurers now offer term and whole life insurance policies to HIV-positive individuals.
Criteria
- You’ve been diagnosed for over a year
- You’re on a stable ART regimen
- Your viral load is undetectable
- You have no major health complications
Some leading insurers offer coverage for HIV clients.
- Guardian Life
- Prudential
- John Hancock
Note: Premiums may be higher, and underwriting is more rigorous, but guaranteed issue and simplified issue policies (with no medical exams) may be an option if you’re declined elsewhere.
HIV and Wasting Syndrome
Wasting syndrome is a condition characterized by significant, involuntary weight loss—often more than 10% of body weight—along with diarrhea, chronic weakness, and fever. It was common in the early days of the AIDS epidemic but is now less frequent thanks to modern ART.
What Causes HIV Wasting?
- Chronic inflammation
- Malabsorption of nutrients
- Opportunistic infections
- Decreased appetite or metabolic changes
Treatment for HIV Wasting
- Nutritional support (high-calorie diets, supplements)
- Appetite stimulants (like megestrol acetate or dronabinol)
- Exercise programs to rebuild muscle mass
- Treating underlying infections or GI issues
If you or a loved one is experiencing rapid weight loss with HIV, contact a specialist immediately. Comprehensive care can help reverse or stabilize wasting symptoms.
Looking Ahead
HIV is no longer a death sentence. With the right support and access to preventive tools, treatment options, and informed healthcare providers, people can live long, full lives.
If you are concerned about HIV, don’t wait. Whether it’s getting on PrEP, seeking a diagnosis, finding an HIV treatment doctor, or exploring life insurance, there are resources available to help.
Have questions or need help finding an HIV care provider or prevention plan near you? Start with your state’s health department or the federal HIV.gov locator tool.