Emtricitabine / tenofovir disoproxil and Pain: What Users Say

• Hai...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• April 28, 2020

For HIV Infection "I've been using Truvada for almost 5 years. My numbers are okay. Recently became undetectable. I notice a major sleeping problem. My knees, ankles, and back always hurt. While I'm on quarantine, so much time off decided to do some research. I am only 46 and have more pain than a 90-year-old. I am sure I can blame Truvada for that."

• Sic...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• January 3, 2020

"I was unnecessarily prescribed Truvada post-exposure prophylaxis against the standard protocol at a clinic in Montreal. I was on it for a month. Midway through, I developed what I thought were intestinal issues. I was told not to worry about it and that there would be no permanent side effects. After discontinuation, the issue did not go away and instead got worse. I now have chronic pancreatitis. I am in constant pain. I can't sleep or eat. I've lost over 30 lbs in a month and a half. It has completely ruined my life. DO NOT take this medication unless you are 100% positive that you absolutely have to."

• GET...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• November 26, 2019

For Nonoccupational Exposure "I was prescribed PEP after a condom slipped off during vaginal intercourse. As it turns out, I did not need the treatment, and the doctor wasn't supposed to prescribe it to me under those circumstances. I was told side effects were mild and nothing long-term. Developed abdominal issues two weeks in. Was told not to worry, that was normal and it would pass. I was on treatment for one month. It's been eight months since it ended, but the issues have only gotten worse. I'm in crippling pain most of the time. I have trouble keeping any weight on. I'm afraid to eat because I know what will happen after that. It's getting to the point where I won't be able to work soon. I've had several tests done, but they can't figure it out. My life is a living nightmare now. I would give anything if I could go back and not take these drugs. They made me sign a waiver beforehand, which should have been a red flag, I guess. Whatever you do, DO NOT TAKE THESE DRUGS unless you are ABSOLUTELY POSITIVE that it is 100% NECESSARY!!!"