What Are the Side Effects of Truvada?

There are hundreds of plaintiffs in an ongoing class-action lawsuit alleging that Truvada caused issues related to kidney problems, bone injuries, and lactic acidosis. The lawsuit was filed against Truvada’s maker, Gilead Sciences, Inc., for its negligence in failing to warn patients about the drug’s side effects.

Patients and their loved ones who sustained bodily harm after taking Truvada can pursue financial compensation for their losses. Talking about the specifics of your situation with a Florida personal injury lawyer can apply federal and state laws to your case. Our firm can reveal insight as to which options are available to you.

The Side Effects of Truvada Range From Mild to Severe

Truvada and other tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) drugs are effective in preventing the synthesis and development of cells responsible for autoimmune diseases, including:

• HIV
• AIDS
• Influenza
• Hepatitis B
• Hepatitis C

However, its efficacy does not come without injurious consequences for people who take it.The side effects of Truvada and TDF medications can include the following:

Common Side Effects 

Like many prescription drugs, Truvada comes with common side effects that are generally considered to be non-life-threatening. Patients taking TDF-based drugs can experience the following symptoms:

• Dizziness, nausea, and vomiting
• Diarrhea and stomach problems
• Head, joint, stomach, or back pain
• Depression and fatigue
• Problems sleeping
• Changes in the skin’s appearance
• Skin rashes

While the preceding list is not exhaustive, typical side effects associated with taking Truvada are generally treated and monitored by a physician with little disruption. The complications related to kidney problems and bone injuries are often more severe.

Kidney Injuries

There is an active link between TDF drug use and kidney problems. The main kidney injuries caused by Truvada include the following: 

• Chronic kidney disease (CKD)
• Renal tubular acidosis (RTA)
• Fanconi syndrome

As noted, Truvada kidney injuries are often severe and life-threatening. For instance, it can cause acute renal failure (ARF), which per the Mayo Clinic, stops your kidneys from filtering out your blood. Patients who experience these issues often require transplants or scheduled dialysis to remove toxins in the bloodstream.

Bone Problems

Like kidney injuries, there are bone problems associated with taking Truvada. The main bone injuries caused by Truvada include osteopenia and osteoporosis. Patients typically experience symptoms related to diminished bone density. For instance, they may suffer broken bones more frequently than other people their age. 

Lactic Acidosis Symptoms

Lactic acidosis is a condition that causes excessive lactic acid build-up. Although the disease is rare, it is a severe side effect of taking TDF drugs like Truvada. It is an occurrence that prevents the liver from breaking down lactate. 

Per Healthline, common symptoms of lactic acidosis include:

• Nausea
• Bloating
• Stomach pain
• Reduced appetite
• Fatigue

What to Do If You Suspect Truvada Caused Your Impairments 

If you or a loved one experienced Truvada’s negative side effects, you should:

Visit a Physician to Assess Your Health

Before you make any adjustments to your medications or discontinue them, talk to your doctor first. They can provide a personalized answer that meets your health profile. You should never stop taking medication without consulting a medical expert. Doing so could have hazardous consequences on your health. 

Document Your Condition 

While visiting your doctor, keep everything they give you, including: 

• The results of any lab tests
• Your imaging scans (like ultrasounds) 
• The names of prescriptions you are given 
• Any informational documents (like those detailing specialized diets or workout regimens) 

You should also document the dates and times that you sought medical aid. Keep records of your healthcare providers’ names, as well. 

Consider Legal Aid 

Understanding your legal options is another good step. You can speak with our dangerous drug team in Florida to learn more about your case’s potential. Through a successful claim or lawsuit, you could recover damages for your: 

• Pain and suffering 
• Medical bills 
• Loss of future income 
• Lost wages, tips, bonuses, and employee benefits  
• Impaired quality of life 
• Disability 

If you lost a loved one due to Truvada’s side effects, you could seek damages for their funeral and burial. 

You May Have a Limited Time to File a Lawsuit 

Every product liability case is subject to the statute of limitations. Florida Statutes §95.11(3)(e) says that you could have anywhere from four to 12 years to file your case. This will largely depend on the date you discovered your condition. 

Our team understands the gravity of your case. We will file your lawsuit within the appropriate deadline and manage litigation on your behalf. 

Chalik & Chalik Injury Lawyers is Prepared to Help Truvada Injury Victims

Truvada injury victims may feel uncertain as to what they should do to seek compensation for their losses. Chalik & Chalik Injury Lawyers can help you make sense of your options. 

Our attorneys have recovered millions for injured claimants, and we have been featured on the Today show, USA Today, CNN, Dateline, and Inside Edition. Contact us for a free, no-obligation consultation.