Question

Has PEP affected my kidneys?

12 June 2022. Related: All topics, PEP/PEPSE, Side effects.

I am on PEP for 25 days now, i’m taking raltegravir and emtricitabine + tenofovir. I’m starting to notice that my urine is foamy in the morning. and i think it is increasing, more now than than after the first week.

I’m really worried it’s affecting my kidney badly. I did kidney blood and urine analysis and they both seem normal but the urine is more and more foamy! is it possible that the PEP medication affect my kidney badly in such duration (25-28 days)?

Answer

Answer: Josh Peasegood

Hi, how are you doing?

Had you had a kidney function test prior to taking PEP? Tenofovir is known to cause kidney damage however this is commonly in those with an already damaged kidney. It would also not be expected to occur this fast.

As you have already done urinalysis which has appeared normal it would suggest that your kidneys are fine. Though frothy urine can indicate protein which will need medical attention.

Have you done nay further tests and/or spoken to a doctor?

Josh.