Q and A

Question

Are rashes a sign of HIV while I am on PEP?

I am currently taking TLD after a potential HIV exposure . Ever since I’ve been taking it I sometimes get itchy skin which happens on some days but not others. I also have had a rash develop a few times on my arm, behind my knee, around my lower back near my hip.

The rash looks like hives and each time I had it, it disappeared within 2-3 hours . I’ve been taking PEP now for about 26 days (started it 36 hours after potential exposure). Could what I am experiencing be signs of HIV?

Answer

Hi, how are you?

These rashes alone are not suggestive of HIV. While you are on PEP it is more likely a side effect or caused by any stress you have ongoing.

Have you had any other changes in your life since starting PEP?

As this is a skin reaction, it would be advised to speak with you doctor. Have you noticed if the rashes are less now that you have finished TLD?

Josh.

14 comments

  1. Josh Peasegood

    Hi Twijukye,are you keeping the medication dry? When in water if the medication is dry the tablet will start to dissolve. This would mean not all of the tablet would be there and your dose be reduced. If they are dry and you are using the water to cool the packet they are in, this would be safe.

  2. Twijukye

    While taking PEP medication after 6 hrs of exposure, I was keeping the tin of pills in cold water for cooling because inside my house was very hot. Can this be dangerous to the pills?

  3. Josh Peasegood
  4. moses njakwe

    Hi what are some early signs of hiv

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