Question
I am not on ARVs but gaining weight, what does this mean?
6 September 2016. Related: All topics, Side effects, Southern Africa, Starting treatment.
I tested HIV positive 2 years back and never took ARVs but I’m gaining weight. Isn’t it that a person with HIV should lose weight if not on medication?
Answer
Hi,
Thanks for getting in touch.
Have you considered starting treatment? Treatment is also effective at preventing transmission of HIV if you feel that the other benefits are not appropriate for you at the moment. Please see here for more on starting treatment.
You are right that untreated HIV is more likely to lead to weight loss over weight gain. However, everyone is different and this does not necessarily mean that if you don’t lose weight you shouldn’t consider meds.
It’s also worth noting that weight gain can be unhealthy depending on your lifestyle and diet. That’s why it’s important to discuss this with your doctor an they can assess why you are gaining weight and if that is good for your general health.
Hello Piwoluhle and thanks for getting in touch.
The only way to continue being healthy is to continue taking ARVs.
I understand that TLD has a slimming effect on you which you don’t like.
Is this because it suppresses your appetite? Or are you vomiting?
What has your doctor said about this?
Your weight should be monitored by your clinic at least once per year and the results entered in your record.
You could try eating well and exercise and see how you respond to that.
Here are some links with more information:
https://i-base.info/guides/side/diet-a-balanced-diet-and-your-health
https://i-base.info/guides/side/exercise-and-staying-active
Hi I’m on arvs for 12years ..not detected I’m having a problem on my meds Ltd…they make me loose weight its like I’m sick I become slim…I stopped taking them for a week I’m healthy weight gain should I go back and drink them…they do the opposite