Is Truvada linked to lipodystrophy?...

[Marc27]

Here I am, confused and worried about all of this...tried to avoid treatment for over 10 years and now is my turn to start (300CD4, 12,000VL) and just decided to start on a HIV medication study (12/09/08) since it will be my first time starting HIV meds and my doctor recommended it.... I am a bodybuilder/weightlifting guy since 1985 and I feel like my world is gonna crash down as soon as I start on meds...
The treatment I will be starting on is with a Truvada combination and my major concern, of course as everyone being HIV pos..... side effects... Particularly since I got disgnosed HIV pos I have been with no visual symptoms, I am worried and scared I will get lipodystrophy and facial wasting... I have a partner for 10 years now and he's been HIV negative and of course I am worried all those physical changes will leave me alone and separated from our society like many of us has experienced towards this reality....
Can anyone give recommendations or  let me know if Truvada is related to these side effects and which side effects should be ready to deal with while taking this medication....I am a Science major and, to tell you the truth -toxicity freaks me out ......
I'll appreciate anyone's comments....

[aztecan]

Hey Marc,

Hypothetically, yes, Truvada could cause lipodystrophy. Here is a link:

http://www.aidsmeds.com/archive/Truvada_1584.shtml

Realistically, it is one of the safer meds regarding this side effect.

While side effects are possible with virtually all medications, they are not inevitable.

Some people experience them, others don't. You won't know until you try.

Try not to stress about side effects until you experience them, if you do.

The important issue is to take your meds to keep yourself healthy, allowing you to continue being a body builder, enjoying your life and your relationship.

Good luck with whatever you decide. Let us know how things go.

HUGS,

Mark

[weasel]

Hey Marc27  .

                         i have been on Truvada for over 4 years now ,
                  my first HARRT HIV meds .
                    NO problems with physical side effects , I am 54
                    Have an Identical twin , so I know for sure the meds are not
                     changing my apperance .
                    I have put on a few pounds ,belly   
                 but no other signs of change 


                                 wishing you comfort with your new meds 
                                 it works well for me ,
                                                                     Karl