Antiretroviral (ARV) medications are used to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and suppress the virus to reduce the risk of AIDS-related illnesses. While ARV medications are generally safe and effective, they can have side effects. Common side effects of ARVs include: Nausea: Many ARV medications can cause nausea, especially when first starting treatment. Fatigue: Fatigue is a common side effect of ARV medications, and can be especially noticeable in the first few weeks of treatment. Diarrhea: Some ARV medications can cause diarrhea, which can be mild to severe. Headache: Headaches are a common side effect of ARV medications, but usually go away after a few days. Skin rash: Some ARV medications can cause a skin rash, which can be mild or severe. Depression and anxiety: ARV medications can affect mood, and some people may experience depression or anxiety while taking ARVs. Insomnia: Some ARV medications can cause insomnia, or difficulty sleeping. Liver problems: Some ARV medications can cause liver problems, including an increase in liver enzymes. Peripheral neuropathy: Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that can cause tingling, burning, and numbness in the hands and feet. Lactic acidosis: This is a serious condition that can occur as a result of taking certain ARV medications. It is characterized by an increase in lactic acid levels in the blood and can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, abdominal pain, and difficulty breathing. It's important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and some people may not experience any side effects at all. If you experience any side effects while taking ARV medications, it's important to talk to your healthcare provider as soon as possible. They can recommend ways to manage side effects, or switch you to a different medication if necessary.