The Dangerous Side Effects Of Truvada Medicine
Truvada is known throughout the world as a drug that is designed to treat and prevent the human immunodeficiency virus, HIV, or Aids.
It uses a combination of chemicals, Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate (TDF) and Emtricitabine. The two chemicals stop HIV cells from multiplying further.
What a lot of people don’t know is that Truvada does not cure AIDS or HIV. Instead, it only works to contain the HIV cells and stops it from developing into AIDS.
On top of that, Truvada actually has a lot of side effects. While some side effects are minor, others are major and can be fatal.
Recently, there has been a surplus in Truvada lawsuits because the company has failed to mention the side effects of the drug.
So let’s see what are those minor and major side effects of this controversial medication.
Minor Side Effects Of Truvada
Here is a list of common side effects of Truvada that are minor in nature:
- Abdominal and stomach pain;
- Back pain;
- Decreased weight;
- Liver problems;
- Headache;
- Dizziness;
- Sleeping problems, including vivid dreams;
- Fatigue or weakness;
- Difficulty in breathing;
- Diarrhea;
- Skin rash.
Now, these are some minor side effects, but this doesn’t mean it’s something normal to experience. As you can see further, some of them are related to (and can also be a sign of) major health problems.
Any unusual change in your body, your behavior, or your mental health might lead to something more serious, so make sure to consult a physician.
Major Side Effects Of Truvada
Apart from the minor side effects mentioned above, people have also reported some serious side effects of using Truvada, which has also resulted in death in some cases. Here they are:
1. Decreased Bone Density
One of the serious side effects of the drug is that it causes bone density to decrease.
No matter how much you are looking after your bone health, if you take Truvada it will cause the bones to deteriorate which could even result in broken bones.
This medication is intended to be taken for long periods of time because it only prevents HIV from growing and it is actually not a cure. Hence, a patient may experience a decrease in bone density.
2. Kidney Damage
The drug has also been shown to damage the kidneys. Because it is up to the kidneys to expel the drug after you have taken it, it stressed the kidneys, which could lead to long-term damage and even kidney failure.
So if you experience a change in the quantity of urine, or if the color of your urine is pink-ish, then it’s time to go straight to your doctor’s office.
3. Depression And Anxiety
The presence of mental and mood changes is also a sign that Truvada medicine is making you more harm than good.
So don’t wait until your depression or anxiety worsens and visit a specialist for a consultation as soon as you notice these mood changes.
4. Liver Damage
Another organ that can be damaged by the frequent use of Truvada medicine is your liver.
So pay attention to side effects such as constant vomiting and nausea, loss of appetite, yellow eyes and skin, or dark-colored urine.
If any of these signs of liver problems occur, make sure to tell your doctor and find a solution together.
5. Lactic Acidosis
This is a serious blood problem that manifests through irregular (deep and/or rapid) breathing, frequent vomiting and nausea, and feeling sleepy and weak all the time.
If you think you might suffer from lactic acidosis, then you should consult with your doctor to schedule a urine test.
How Law Protects You From Truvada
A lot of people don’t realize that Truvada is not a safe medicine to use, no matter how bad the situation gets.
The manufacturer behind the drug has previously failed to mention the severe side effects of the drug. This means that if you are a layman, there is no way to tell how the drug can damage your health.
If you think you suffer from one of the side effects of Truvada that are mentioned above, you may be entitled to compensation.
You need to first discuss this with your doctor and tell him/her how the drug has changed your life through its side effects.
When you can determine that Truvada has indeed damaged your health further, a talented lawyer can be hired to sue the company behind the drug.
Lawyers work day and night to protect your well-being and they are especially well versed in defending and fighting cases with dangerous medicines and drugs involved.
Remember, better to be safe than sorry. So make sure to visit your doctor whenever a new symptom occurs, be it even a small one.