Walgreens dispenses vital support through HIV-specialized pharmacies Wellness Watch by Chael Needle Individuals living with HIV/AIDS and in treatment may not know that one pharmacy may be different from the next when it comes to addressing their needs. Walgreens, a national pharmacy chain, wants them to know that HIV-sensitive support exists in a safe environment—free-of-charge, discreet and confidential, and without having to make an appointment. Across the country and in Puerto Rico, more than 700 Walgreens’ HIV-specialized pharmacies have created vital links among patients, healthcare [...]

Is there more benefit to probiotics than we thought? by Jeannie Wraight Probiotics are live microorganisms that help to preserve the good bacteria and balance of organisms (microflora) in the gut. Probiotics have been utilized for their health benefits for nearly a century. An essential question now being asked is how much benefit can be obtained through the use of probiotics in HIV disease? Can probiotics help change the course of disease progression? Three important studies examine whether probiotics can positively affect HIV disease progression [...]

When it comes to diarrhea, oral rehydration is a neglected but effective therapy by Mariel Selbovitz, MPH [WELLNESS WATCH} Diarrhea is one of the most annoying and most common effects of HIV infection, resulting from the damage the virus causes to the gut mucosa, many of the antiretroviral drugs used to treat HIV, and opportunistic infections. Additionally, it can even be a life-threatening problem if not addressed correctly and rapidly. Diarrhea is an exceedingly common problem in people living with HIV and the severity ranges [...]