Question
Why am I loosing weight after being on ART for 8 months?
24 May 2022. Related: All topics, Newly diagnosed, Side effects, Starting treatment.
I started ART 8 months ago. I gained weight well but currently i’m starting to lose it. I take my meds religiously… What might be the cause?
Answer
Hi, how are you doing?
I am sorry to hear that you are loosing weight. Do you know how much you have lost since starting treatment?
Another question, what HIV medication do you take? Some HIV medication have been linked to changes in weight and others haven’t.
There are a number of other factors that can change your weight other than HIV medication. These include: changes in diet and exercise, smoking, increased stress. Have you noticed anything in your regular lifestyle that has changed since you have noticed the weight loss?
Josh.
Hello Kishan and thanks for getting in touch.
Congratulations for becoming undetectable and for taking your medication!
How are you managing with your diagnosis? Have you been connected to others living with HIV, community groups and organisations?
It is very helpful for the first months or years to be connected to groups like that as they can help you with any questions you might have and to manage the stress you might be feeling.
We have some more information here:
https://i-base.info/just-found-out/
The first months on ARVs are usually the time your body starts to recover.
It might take a little longer before you are able to put on weight though.
We recommend healthy diet and exercise to help your body rebuild but prepare yourself cause this can be a long progress and not reversible in a few months.
Please see the links for more information:
https://i-base.info/guides/side/exercise-and-staying-active
https://i-base.info/guides/side/diet-a-balanced-diet-and-your-health
From what you write it seems you are doing great and please keep up the good work you are doing
Ibe been taking art medicine for more than 8 months and become undetected but my weight not increasing what could be the reason