Dear Dr. Horwath,

Almost every article in the Body, Aids meds.com and other educational sites is filled with article after article on new drugs, or ways to minimize toxic drug reaction etc. Where has the cry for cure gone.

It has been a long time now since the Vaxgen vaccine study tanked. And the thought of a lifetime with these damn pills is very depressing. - I want a cure not more meds!

I became positive 5 1/2 years ago and the doctors were optimistic that a cure was just 5-10 years down the road. But nothing I've read seems hopeful and I am sinking back into a desperate state.

I need HOPE that I can be cured one day. Some ray of hope to hold on to. I can not live a happy life feeling miserable, tired and anxious all the time.

Again, I want - I need a cure. Any information would be greatly appreciated.

There is no cure available at this time. But there are positive things that you can do. Sticking with your treatment gives you the best possible chance to avoid the complications of HIV infection and lead a productive life. Your situation at this time is much better than it would have been before 1995, when the really effective antiretroviral medications were not yet available. The current treatments are not a cure, and they are not without side effects, but they have tremendously decreased the mortality & complications from HIV, and improved the chances for leading a functional life.

Research continues and there is reason for hope.