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
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.
Hi Simon, please see this previous question: https://i-base.info/qa/803
I have 3moths arvs my face becaming dark and original am light compilation what must I do please help
Hi Keshy, have you spoken to your doctor about the problems you are having with your skin?
Hey I have a problem of my skin varying with weather or moving from place to place what I’m I suppose to do
Hi Amoo, how long have you been on treatment? and how long have you been vomiting after eating? This is not a side effect of TLD. Have you noticed any other symptoms e.g., fever, chills, runny nose?
I was put on TLD treatment and my CD4 count was 34/mm and whenever I eat anything I vomit, I have also got muscle spasm
Is this drug causing all this
Hi Cecilia, as with any skin changes you should discuss this with your doctor. Some treatment can lead to darkening of the skin but this is only one possible cause. There are a number of reasons for changing skin tone and this should be assessed by your doctor.
Hi,l have been taking my arvs for two months now and my skin i becoming dark and im a light skin woman , please help what can l use to get my skin glow back,thank you
Hi Benni, do you know the names of the medication you are taking? Some HIV treatments can cause a reduction in Vitamin D. This can cause darkening of skin colour. Have you mentioned this to your doctor? As with all skin changes/side effects, it is important you mention this so your doctor can manage this.
Recently started a tb and arvs treatment, lately my skin colour is getting darker with each day. Could this be associated with the medication I’m taking?