HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is a type of disease in which the immune system is severely weakened. Sometimes, this can lead to an increased prevalence of infections. MedlinePlus says that HIV signs include fatigue, diarrhea, a fever, swollen lymph node glands and a sore throat. In some instances, muscular stiffness, muscle aches and frequent vaginal infections can result. While there is no cure for HIV, there are a variety of medications to treat the disease.
Emtricitabine
Emtricitabine, commonly sold as Emtriva, is a medication available to manage HIV. Typically, this medication is used in combination with other HIV medications. Drugs.com says that emtricitabine is an antiviral medication that prevents the HIV drug from spreading throughout the body.
Emtricitabine's common side effects include a change in the color of the soles of the feet and palms of the hand. Sometimes, this medication also leads to a headache, indigestion, nausea, joint pain, a runny nose and stomach pain. In some instances, emtricitabine leads to weakness and a lack of energy. Call a doctor when emtricitabine's common effects remain for greater than seven days.
Emtricitabine's serious side effects include dark urine, trouble breathing, a sore throat, fever and chills. Its additional effects include changes in mood, muscle pain, yellowing of the skin or eyes and chest tightness. Call a physician immediately when emtricitabine leads to these effects.
A reduction in emtricitabine's dose may be required when taking drugs for kidney problems, chronic hepatitis B and liver problems.
Emtricitabine is a capsule taken daily or as prescribed.
Nelfinavir
Nelfinavir, commonly sold as Viracept, is another drug available for HIV management. Drugs.com says that nelfinavir is an antiviral medication that stops the HIV virus from infiltrating the body.
Nelfinavir's less serious side effects include fatigue, vomiting, diarrhea, a poor appetite, mood changes and changes in the distribution of body fat. Sometimes, nelfinavir can lead to nausea and a headache. Talk to a physician when nelfinavir's less serious side effects remain for greater than five days.
Nelfinavir's serious side effects include easy bleeding or bruising, increased thirst, a fever, the flu and a cough. Phone a doctor immediately when nelfinavir leads to these effects.
A reduction in nelfinavir's dose may be required when suffering from such diseases as diabetes, liver or kidney disease, high cholesterol and a bleeding disorder.
Nelfinavir is a tablet taken two to three times daily.
Efavirenz
Efavirenz, commonly sold as Sustiva, is another medication available for HIV. It is a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor that works to slow the progression of HIV in the body.
MedlinePlus indicates that Efavirenz's less concerning side effects include vomiting, stomach pain, nervousness, strange dreams, pain and trouble concentrating. Sometimes, this drug may lead to strange thoughts, a headache and indigestion. Tell a doctor when efavirenz's less serious side effects last for greater than five days.
Efavirenz's serious side effects include a poor appetite, a lack of energy, fainting, peeling skin, yellowing of the skin or eyes and seizures. In some instances, efavirenz can also lead to pain in the upper part of the stomach, itching and seizures. Notify a doctor when efavirenz leads to these effects.
Taking such medications as verapamil, nifedipine, celecoxib, sertraline, naproxen and ibuprofen may require an adjustment in efavirenz's dose.
Efavirenz is a tablet or capsule taken daily.
