What is the risk of side effects?

In general, very few people change ART because of side effects.

However, all meds, however safe, can cause side effects in some people. Luckily, with HIV meds, these are usually mild and short term.

The goal of modern HIV treatment is not to have any side effects at all.

Although the possible side effects listed for any drug sounds daunting, in reality, only a small percentage of people might get each one.

And in the UK, it is easy to change to an alternative treatment if you do have any trouble.

• Many people do not get side effects.
• If they do occur, they are usually mild.
• Most people find that ART is much easier to take than they expected. It usually becomes an ordinary part of everyday life.
• There is only a small risk of serious side effects. It they occur, they should be picked up by routine monitoring.
• It is easy to switch to another HIV drug. Sometimes changing how you take your meds can also stop side effects. For example, changing timing is relation to food or sleep.

Before you start ART, ask your doctor, nurse or HIV pharmacist about the most common side effects of the drugs that you might use.

• Ask how likely they are to occur?
• Even rough estimates will give you a good idea of what to expect.
• Ask how many people stop treatment because of side effects – usually it is very few.

If you do have any symptoms, please talk to your doctor. Sometimes they are not side effects but are caused by a different health problem.

Last updated: 1 November 2024.