Question
What are the risks of taking an over-dose of ARVs?
4 January 2011. Related: Adherence, All topics, Drug interactions, Side effects, Support.
Answer
Thank you for your question.
Taking one or two extra doses of ARVs it not likely to be a problem. But is could increase side-effects from the drugs for a couple of days.
To give you a more accurate answer please let me know how much of an overdose you are talking about. For example, is it just forgetting someone had already taken the drugs and taking them again once? Or are you talking about someone say taking a whole months supply at once?
Taking a double dose by accident on rare occasions shouldn’t cause serious harm, however, a deliberate overdose of a lot of ARVs could increase the toxicities to such an extent that it damages the body’s vital organs.
Hello Sisanda and thanks for getting in touch.
Please do not worry.
Taking your ARVs twice in a day is not ideal but will not harm you.
Please remember to drink a lot of water – at least 2 litres but otherwise you should be fine.
Might get a headache or some diarrhoea though, but this is nothing to worry about.
I accidentally take my arvs two time today,is there any harm? I need help?
Hello WB and thanks for getting in touch.
Please go to an accident and emergency if you have taken half a bottle of tablets or speak to your general practitioner.
They will be able offer you help, and deal with any problems you are facing.
What happens if one overdoses on like half a month’s pep?
Hello Keaoleboga and thanks for getting in touch.
I am very sorry to hear you took an overdose of your medication.
Please go to an accident and emergency department and ask for help.
Please contact your clinic and ask them to provide you with support.
I am sure your clinic can provide you with some help and support.
Taking your medication can help you live a long and active life.
However, more support from community groups and therapists can help you get your life back on track.
Please remember that everything will be ok, even if it doesn’t look like that today.
I have overdose 3 ARVs
Hi Ric, taking HIV meds this way will not end your life. If you are unlucky though this might seriously damage your liver and/or kidneys so please call your clinic or doctor or emergency services. Please explain what happened and how you feel. Or call a phoneline like Samaritans where someone can talk about how you feel with you.