You've probably already seen the news that Brazil will start producing the main medication used to treat HIV through the SUS. But perhaps you thought: "So what? What does this really change?"

Actually, this is much bigger news than it seems.

It means the country will become less dependent on importing an essential medication for thousands of Brazilians. In other words, treatment gains more security, the risk of medication shortages decreases, and the SUS strengthens its capacity to care for people living with HIV.

And that matters a lot.

Today, living with HIV is completely different from what it was 30 or 40 years ago. A diagnosis that was once surrounded by fear and few treatment options can now be accompanied by a long, healthy, and quality life. Much of this change has happened thanks to advances in medications.

HIV and AIDS: are they the same thing?

Many people still use both terms as if they were synonymous, but they mean different things.

  • HIV is the virus
  • AIDS is the disease that can develop when this virus severely weakens the body's defense system

Having HIV does not mean having AIDS. Today, a person who discovers HIV early and receives proper treatment may never develop AIDS.

Why is this medication so important?

The medication that Brazil will start producing is called dolutegravir.

It is part of the most commonly used treatment by the SUS because it can prevent the virus from continuing to multiply within the body.

As a result, the amount of virus in the blood decreases until it becomes so low that tests can no longer detect it. This is what we call undetectable viral load.

Undetectable = Untransmittable (U = U)

When a person takes medications correctly, maintains medical follow-up, and remains with an undetectable viral load for at least six months, they do not transmit HIV through sexual contact.

This concept became known worldwide as Undetectable = Untransmittable (U = U) — and it completely changed the way we view HIV.

How does treatment work in Brazil?

In Brazil, treatment is completely free.

After a positive test, the person is referred to a specialized SUS service, undergoes tests, starts medications, and receives regular follow-up care.

In addition to medications, the SUS also offers:

  • consultations;
  • tests to monitor viral load;
  • guidance from a multidisciplinary team.

All of this at no cost to the patient.

Why does manufacturing this medication in Brazil make a difference?

Imagine depending on another country to receive a medication that needs to be taken every day.

If there are problems in worldwide production, delays in imports, or international crises, there is a risk of shortage.

By producing dolutegravir in the country itself, Brazil gains more autonomy. This helps to:

  • ensure that the medication continues to reach patients on a regular basis;
  • strengthen one of the world's largest public HIV treatment programs.

Is treatment still difficult?

Fortunately, not like it used to be.

In the early days of the epidemic, it was common for people to need to take multiple pills throughout the day, with many side effects.

Today, for most patients, treatment is much simpler. In many cases, just one pill a day is enough to completely control the virus.

When treatment is followed correctly, life expectancy can be very close to that of a person who does not live with HIV.

How is transmission happening?

HIV can be transmitted mainly by:

  • sexual intercourse without condom protection;
  • sharing needles and syringes;
  • transmission from mother to baby during pregnancy, delivery, or breastfeeding, when there is no treatment;
  • contact with contaminated blood.

HIV is NOT transmitted by:

  • hugging;
  • social kissing;
  • handshake;
  • sharing glasses, plates, utensils;
  • swimming pools;
  • bathrooms;
  • mosquito bites.

These myths still exist and end up fueling prejudice.

Is it possible to prevent?

Yes. Today there are several forms of prevention.

Condoms continue to be a great ally.

PrEP is a medication used before virus exposure by people at higher risk of infection.

PEP is indicated after a risky situation. It must be started within 72 hours and can prevent infection from occurring.

Testing is another very important strategy. Taking the test when there has been exposure or doubt means that the earlier the diagnosis is made, the sooner treatment can begin.

What does this news represent?

Producing dolutegravir in Brazil goes far beyond the manufacture of a medication.

It is investing in public health, reducing import dependence, and ensuring that thousands of people continue to have access to safe and effective treatment.

But perhaps the most important message is a different one.

Today, HIV is no longer a death sentence.

With early diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and regular follow-up, it is possible to work, study, start a family, have children, and live many years with quality of life.

Correct information, access to treatment, and combating prejudice continue to be the most important tools in this story.

This content is for informational purposes and does not replace a consultation. For better assessment, please see a doctor.

Dr. Rebeca Soares Andrade CRM - GO 39335