HIV/AIDS and Dehydration

The HIV/AIDS disease and the medications used to treat it disrupt how the body manages fluids. For instance, symptoms and side effects of HIV/AIDS medication – including fever, night sweats, vomiting and diarrhea – can all lead to a rapid loss of water and electrolytes, which triggers dehydration. For patients, managing hydration when these symptoms are present is critical for maintaining proper hydration. Common Risk Factors for Dehydration for People Living with HIV/AIDS:

  • Diarrhea: Diarrhea may be caused by HIV/AIDS or antiretroviral drugs used to treat it. When this symptom is present, water and electrolytes are lost more quickly than normal. Patients experiencing persistent or chronic diarrhea, lasting 2-4 weeks or more, may benefit from supplementing their fluid and electrolyte intake.
  • Vomiting: Several antiretroviral drugs induce vomiting, especially when they are first introduced to patients. When starting a new drug regime, patients may need to rehydrate and supplement with electrolytes, if vomiting persists.
  • Night Sweats or Fever: Sweat consists mostly of water and electrolytes. Therefore, episodes of excessive sweating or high fever, which increases sweat rate so the body can cool itself, can exacerbate or cause dehydration.
  • Nausea, Lack of Appetite, Mouth Sores: All three of these symptoms, which can be caused by side effects of antiretroviral drugs, may discourage patients from drinking fluids voluntarily.

DripDrop: Medical-Grade Hydration for People Living with HIV/AIDS

DripDrop is a great tasting, medical grade hydration solution developed by a pediatrician. Built on decades of proven science, it contains a precise ratio of salts, sugars and potassium to optimize fluid and electrolyte absorption and speed recovery. DripDrop contains 2-3 times the electrolytes of sports drinks and has been shown to rehydrate 34% better than water alone. Available in natural lemon and berry flavors, DripDrop does not contain any artificial colors, flavors or preservatives. DripDrop is also low in sugar, which, when sipped slowly, may make it more palatable for patients experiencing nausea.