Truvada linked to kidney damage and even kidney failure

Truvada is a prescription medication that was manufactured to help prevent and treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). Promising to limit the multiplying of HIV cells in the body, the medication contains the virus cells and keeps them from spreading throughout the body. Because it protects against the spreading of HIV cells, the drug was also marketed and sold as a preventative medication to reduce the risk of contracting HIV.  

When the drug was released, the list of common side effects was long, but not alarming. The side effects included:

• Nausea
• Abdominal and stomach pain
• Decreased weight
• Diarrhea
• Liver problems
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Depression
• Sleeping problems (including vivid dreams)
• Fatigue or weakness
• Muscle pain
• Difficulty breathing
• And skin rash

But the manufacturing company, Gilead Sciences, downplayed the much more severe side effects linked to Truvada such as

• Kidney damage and kidney failure (caused by lactic acidosis)
• Osteoporosis
• Loss of bone density
• Broken bones (due to loss in bone density)

Studies have shown that tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF), one of the main ingredients in Truvada, has been proven to cause lactic acidosis which eventually causes kidney damage or kidney failure. Of those that developed kidney issues, as a result of TDF, around half end up having fatal consequences.

While Gilead Sciences were aware of these studies, they continued to deny the link of TDF to lactic acidosis despite the studies that said otherwise. When Truvada was released, the FDA required the bottle to contain a warning about the possibility of lactic acidosis, but the company representatives claimed it was only there as a “’wait and see’ warning” and not actually something to worry about.

On top of facing claims that they failed their patients by not warning them fully of the possible health risks, Gilead Sciences is also facing a lawsuit that claims they withheld another drug that was safe for consumers so that they could maximize their profits. Before releasing Truvada, the company found a safer and less toxic treatment through tenofovir alafenamide (TAF). Despite knowing they had a safer alternative, they launched Truvada and continued to sell it because it sold for a much higher price than its TAF alternative could.

You may be entitled to compensation

Increasing numbers of users have come forward with serious and life-threatening injuries caused by Truvada. If you, or anyone you know, has used Truvada and experienced moderate to severe side effects, we’re here to help.  Fill out the intake form on this page for a free, no-obligation review of your case. We will review your case and help you figure out what legal options are best for you. Many affected by these severe side effects may be eligible for significant compensation without ever going to court.