Recognizing the side effects of ARV, drugs to cure HIV

Routinely taking antiretroviral drugs (ARV) helps many people with HIV / AIDS (PLWHA) to live a better quality life while preventing the risk of transmission to those around them. However, like most drugs, the side effects of ARVs are difficult to avoid. Reactions such as nausea, headache, stomachache, restlessness, or difficulty concentrating are examples of common side effects of HIV drugs. On the other hand, some of the side effects of ARV drugs can even be so serious that they require a doctor's consultation as soon as possible.

It is this risk of side effects that is one of the biggest reasons why people stop taking HIV drugs. However, do not use the risk of side effects of ARV drugs as an excuse to stop HIV treatment. The dangers of side effects of ARVs can still be anticipated through proper handling. If HIV treatment is discontinued intentionally, it can lead to progression of the disease or to a more severe stage of HIV.

Aim for HIV treatment with ARV drugs

The antiretroviral treatment regimen works to prevent HIV from multiplying in the body while protecting and strengthening the immune system. That way, PLWHA can have the same life expectancy as other healthy people

It is mandatory to remember, you must continue to take the drug regularly and do not reduce the dose unless your doctor recommends it, even though you feel uncomfortable with the health problems it causes.

If you miss many doses or reduce doses alone, the effectiveness of the drug may be lost. However, there are some medications that you should stop immediately when certain side effects occur.

According to WebMD, there are 2 types of side effects of ARVs, namely short-term and long-term side effects.

Short-term side effects of ARV drugs

Short-term side effects of HIV medications include fatigue, nausea, diarrhea and a rash. The side effects of these ARV drugs can last up to several weeks and improve as the body adjusts to the treatment.

Other temporary side effects of ARVs can include headache, fever, muscle aches and dizziness. You must tell your doctor about any side effects of ARVs you are experiencing, so that the doctor can determine the best treatment method for your condition.

1. Loss of appetite

The side effects of ARV drugs are caused by the type of drug Abacavir (Ziagen). In order to combat these side effects of ARVs, you can eat several small portions a day instead of 3 large portions.

It is recommended to take nutritious supplements or drinks to ensure you get enough vitamins and minerals, such as consuming appetite-enhancing stimulants, drinking fruit juices instead of plain water.

2. Diarrhea

Diarrhea as a side effect of ARVs can be caused by taking protease inhibitors and other drugs. To overcome the side effects of these ARV drugs, you must reduce your intake of oily, fatty, spicy foods and dairy products and insoluble fats (such as raw vegetables, whole grain cereals, nuts).

In addition, use over-the-counter anti-diarrheal drugs such as loperamide (Imodium) or diphenoxylate and atropine (Lomotil).

3. Fatigue

Tiredness caused by taking antiretroviral drugs is caused by various drugs. In handling these side effects of ARVs, it is important to eat healthy foods to provide more energy and avoid alcohol and cigarettes. Apart from that, you also need to exercise regularly.

4. Depression

Depression or anxiety and mood swings are usually caused by the ARV drug Efavirenz (Sustiva). In anticipating the side effects of these ARV drugs, you must change the timing of the drug doses.

In addition, avoid consumption of alcohol and illegal drugs. These side effects of ARVs can also be overcome by taking antidepressant therapy or drugs.

5. Nausea and vomiting

Almost all types of ARV drugs cause side effects of this HIV drug. The way to overcome the side effects of these ARVs is by consuming smaller portions of food several times a day rather than 3 large portions, as well as consuming bland foods such as white rice and crackers.

In addition, avoid fatty and spicy foods. Serve food cold and not hot. It is important to use anti-emetic drugs to control the side effects of ARV drugs that cause nausea.

6. Rash

Taking the HIV drug Nevirapine can cause a rash to appear on the skin. In dealing with these side effects of ARVs, it is important to moisturize the skin using lotion every day and avoid hot showers.

Also, use non-irritating soaps and detergents. Wear breathable fabrics, such as cotton. Consult your doctor whether you can use antihistamine drugs.

7. Sleep disturbance

The cause of sleep disturbances while on antiretroviral treatment is the use of Elfavirenz (Sustiva) and other types of HIV drugs.

The side effects of ARVs in the form of sleep disturbances can be overcome by exercising regularly. Also, stick to a sleep schedule and avoid naps, and avoid caffeine and other stimulants a few hours before bedtime. In addition, consult your doctor about using sleeping pills if the disorder persists.

Short-term side effects of ARV drugs

In addition to the series of mild symptoms above, the risk of side effects from ARV drugs can be serious and appear over time. The side effects of these ARV drugs can cause long-term health problems that require proper medical treatment to overcome them.

1. Changes in body fat distribution (Lipodystrophy)

Lipodystrophy is also known as fat redistribution. This means that you have problems in the production, use and storage of fat.

The side effects of these antiretroviral drugs can include loss of fat in the face and limbs, and transfer of fat to the abdomen and back of the neck. The cause is a series of treatments from the NRTIs and the protease inhibitor class.

Strength training exercises and tesamorelin, a prescription drug that targets belly fat, can help reduce these side effects of HIV treatment.

Apart from that, you should also get polylactic acid (New Fill, Sculptra) injections in your face if you lose fat in that area.

Ask your doctor about the drug tesamorelin (Egrifta), which reduces excess belly fat in people taking HIV medicines.

2. High cholesterol and triglycerides (lipids) in the blood

These side effects of ARVs are caused by protease inhibitors and other drugs. To fix this, it is important to reduce your dietary fat intake (talk to a dietitian about the safest way) by eating fish and other foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids.

It is also recommended to do blood tests to see cholesterol and triglyceride levels. You need to start taking cholesterol medications and avoiding fats in your diet, use statins or other lipid-lowering drugs.

3. Insulin resistance

Taking ARV drugs can cause insulin resistance or cause abnormalities in your blood sugar levels. In managing these side effects of ARVs, changes to your diet and medications may be necessary.

4. Reduced bone density

These side effects of ARVs can be an important problem, especially for older adults with HIV. Bone loss or osteoporosis can lead to an increased risk of injury and fractures. Preventive measures include free exercise and a diet that supports bone health.

5. Lactic acidosis

Lactic acidosis is a condition of the buildup of lactate in the body, a waste product of body cells. Symptoms that arise due to the side effects of these ARVs include loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Additionally, it can cause problems ranging from muscle aches to liver failure.

6. Liver damage

Signs and symptoms of this antiretroviral drug side effect include abdominal pain, dark urine, and light or clay-colored stools. Your doctor can run tests and determine what action to take.

How to deal with the long-term side effects of ARVs

Some of the side effects of ARV drugs can be continuous or cause serious problems. However, there are many ways to overcome it so that it doesn't interfere too much with your quality of life.

To deal with the long-term side effects of ARVs, you can follow these tips:

A simple blood test allows you to see an increase in the levels of cholesterol and other fats in the blood. You may need to take cholesterol medications and avoid fat in your diet.
High blood sugar levels can lead to diabetes. Changes in diet and use of diabetes medications may be necessary.
If your doctor diagnoses a change in how your body stores or metabolizes fat, your doctor may be able to advise you to do sports that focus on strength training as well as use of tesamorelin, a prescription drug that targets belly fat that can help with the side effects of this HIV treatment. Changes in the way the body regulates fat stores can lead to fat accumulation in the abdomen and waist, as well as the loss of fat on the face and other limbs.
Symptoms of lactic acid buildup in the blood include loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting and stomach pain. Immediately report these symptoms to a doctor. You may need a change to your HIV treatment.
A bone density test can confirm osteoporosis as a side effect of your HIV treatment. Preventive measures include weight training and a diet that promotes bone health.
Liver damage. Signs and symptoms include sore throat, cloudy urine, jaundice and light or clay-colored stools. The doctor can perform tests and determine what steps need to be taken.