What is a common side effect associated with NRTIs?

Nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) are a class of antiviral drugs primarily used to treat HIV. One of the notable side effects associated with NRTIs is lactic acidosis. This condition occurs because NRTIs can interfere with mitochondrial DNA replication and function, leading to the accumulation of lactate in the bloodstream when the body is unable to metabolize it properly. This builds up as a result of increased anaerobic metabolism in the presence of impaired mitochondrial function.

Patients on NRTIs must be monitored for symptoms of lactic acidosis, which can include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and rapid breathing. The risk is particularly heightened in patients who are receiving prolonged NRTI therapy, are obese, or have underlying liver disease. Understanding this side effect is crucial for the management and safety of patients undergoing treatment with NRTIs.

While options like cardiomyopathy, nephrotoxicity, and dizziness may occur with other classes of medications or in other contexts, they are not commonly associated with the use of NRTIs, making lactic acidosis the most relevant and notable concern linked to this class of antiviral agents.