Q and A

Question

My skin became darker, what can I do?

1 April 2009. Related: All topics, Other tests, Side effects.

I am on Truvada and Viramune. I was first dignosed with HIV in March 2008 and my CD4 count was 77 and VL 12,000,000. Now my CD4 count is 174 and viral load is undetectable. The problem is my face has become darker. Is this because of the medication or something else. If yes what can be done with this condition? Thanks

Answer

Answer: Web Admin

Darker skin might be linked to a low level of vitamin D (see this recent study).

As you are on Truvada, ask your doctor to check this.

This is only one of the possible reason. If you talk with your doctor, they might decide on other tests.

HIV meds are not usually linked to changes in skin colour.

76 comments

  1. Josh Peasegood •

    Hi Samuel, dolutegravir should not causes changes of skin tone. It can cause rashes and itchiness. Please talk to your doctor about this skin change.

  2. Samuel •

    I am Dolutegravir and my
    Face has become so very dark though I am a bit dark I don’t know why this is happening could it be bexause of the drug I am taking. If yes what can I do to reverse this situation. I am really worried. Does it go over time or it remains permanent

    Thanks Nero

  3. Lisa Thorley •

    Hi Par,

    The ARVs that you’re taking don’t cause skin darkening. If your face is itchy and is becoming darker, please see a doctor.

  4. Par •

    Hi I’ve been taking reydin and purback for few weeks and my face is becoming so dark and a bit itchy at times. Could this be the couse and how can be assisted?

  5. Lisa Thorley •

    Hi Nkutie,

    Tribuss doesn’t make a persons skin go lighter, if this is happening the best thing to do would be to talk to a dermatologist.

  6. Nkutie •

    I have been taking Tribuss since 2009.I am becoming light in complexion, could it be them?

  7. Lisa Thorley •

    Hi Athaa,

    This is something that you’ll need to talk to a doctor about. They’ll be able to tell you.

  8. Athaa •

    Morning I have been using Atvs for a year a 2 months now. But past few weeks I developed dark spots under my feet not sure what’s my viral load currently. But I wanna know what causes my feet to have brown spots please help. And I take my meds in time

  9. Lisa Thorley •

    Hi Bertha,

    What’s the name of the ARVs that you’re taking?

  10. Bertha •

    Am on a arcs and tb prevention but my skin is becoming darker.what can I do ?

Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *