Which of the following is a common side effect of antiretroviral therapy?

Nausea and gastrointestinal issues are indeed common side effects of antiretroviral therapy (ART). When patients begin treatment for HIV, they often experience side effects as their bodies adjust to the medication. These can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal disturbances, which are particularly prevalent with certain classes of antiretroviral drugs.

These side effects arise due to the way medications impact the digestive system and metabolic processes in the body. While ART is essential for managing HIV and maintaining the immune system, the initial phase of treatment can be challenging for some patients due to these adverse reactions. Effective management of these side effects is crucial for patients to adhere to their treatment regimens and achieve the desired outcomes in controlling HIV and improving their health.

In contrast, increased energy levels, heightened immune response, and decreased risk of opportunistic infections are typically positive outcomes of effective ART rather than side effects. When the treatment is successful, the immune system can regain functionality and reduce the risk of infections, but these are not side effects that patients would experience while on treatment.