What is a common side effect of antiretroviral therapy?

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is essential in managing HIV infection and improving the quality of life for those living with the virus. However, as with most medical treatments, ART can lead to several side effects due to its effects on the body.

Nausea, diarrhea, and fatigue are frequently reported side effects of various antiretroviral medications. Nausea and diarrhea can occur as the body adjusts to the medications, potentially due to gastrointestinal effects. Fatigue may be a result of the body’s overall response to the medication and the condition itself, as managing an HIV-positive status can be physically taxing.

While the other options do contain potential side effects that some patients may experience, nausea, diarrhea, and fatigue are among the more common and broader reactions observed in a larger patient demographic undergoing ART. This makes the highlighted answer particularly relevant in the context of ART side effects, helping patients and healthcare providers anticipate and manage these issues effectively.