Question
Why do I still feel sick after being on ARVs for 2 weeks?
7 March 2022. Related: All topics, CD4 and viral load, Complications and coinfections, Newly diagnosed, Opportunistic infections, Side effects, Starting treatment.
My CD4 count is very low, below 100. I have been taking ARVs for 2 weeks now but I still feel sick.
Answer
Hi, how are you?
Are you feeling ill because of side effects or do you have an infection?
ARVs are only used to manage HIV. If something is going on that will also need to be addressed.
If you’re feeling sick because of ARVs, this is often because of side effects. Often side effects from ARVs are worse in the first few weeks of taking them. This is because your body is taking time to adjust. What time are you taking them? Some combinations e.g., those including efavirenz, are better tolerated at night to help sleep through the side effects.
While you are on ARVs, it will allow your immune system to recover and your CD4 count will rise. The higher your CD4 count, the less at risk of other infections you are.
Josh.
Hi Jenny, do you know how your treatment is working e.g., your viral load and CD4 count?
How soon after taking your meds do you feel sick? and do you feel this way when taking any other medication?
What is the name of the meds you are taking?
How much weight have you lost over the last year? Was this intentional weight loss or have you noticed that it has happened without trying? Has anything in your life changed that could have caused this e.g., eating less, more stress, increased exercise/activity?
I’ve been on my arv for one year couple months why do I still feel sick when taking my arvs and why am I still losing my weight after so long on my treatment
Hi Mercy, what is the name of the ARVs you are taking? and are you taking any other medications?
Can ARVs cause tinnitus?
After 2 weeks of taking them?