AIDS and the virus that causes the condition, HIV, is one of the most serious health problems humans face today. According to HIV.gov, roughly 37 million people across the globe have HIV.
Fortunately, the good news is that, due to public awareness and medical advancements, there has been a 31 percent decline in HIV infections over the last decade.
Medical breakthroughs often come at a price
One of the biggest breakthroughs in the prevention of HIV/A and the reduction of its spread from one person to another was the introduction of pre-exposure prophylaxis “PrEP” options, like the drug Truvada.
Truvada was beneficial for those with HIV AIDS, as it helped to reduce viral load. Viral load is referred to as the amount of the virus found in a fluid sample, like blood.
In some cases, Truvada reduced a person’s viral load to the point where it was undetectable and individuals could have contact with their partners without transmission.
Unfortunately, Truvada has been shown to cause serious, debilitating side effects.
Truvada’s connection with kidney problems
One of the biggest red flags for someone taking Truvada is a change in urine. Pink or red urine is a warning sign that there blood in the urine and damage to the kidneys. Another red flag is a noticeable change in an increase in how much one urinates.
Truvada’s connection to liver problems
Problems with the liver have also been linked to Truvada. People taking the drug often experience nausea or vomiting. Other early warning signs are those who suffer severe abdominal pain, or experience yellowing of their skin and eyes, a condition sometimes referred to as jaundice.
Other connections
Truvada has also alleged to cause lactic acidosis, a condition where lactic acid builds up in the blood stream and causes breathing problems, drowsiness and physical weakness among other medical problems.
Sadly, such medical issues for those taking Truvada won’t necessarily disappear when they stop taking the drug. Some people will have permanent damage they have to live with the remainder of their lives.
Those hurt by a prescription medication may have the right to make a claim against the manufacturer of the drug or, in some cases, against the prescribing physician for damages. Recognize the warning signs, then seek legal guidance from a product liability professional knowledgeable in this area of law.