Are there alternative or complementary treatments for HIV?
Many people with HIV are interested in alternative or complementary treatments, including herbs, supplements, acupuncture, and other nontraditional treatments. Some people feel that these treatments reduce their symptoms, such as nausea or pain. Unfortunately, the safety and effective ness of many of these treatments have not been well studied or are not known. In some cases, these treatments may be harmful. Some commonly used supplements, including St. John’s Wort and milk thistle, have been shown to reduce the effectiveness or increase the side effects of some HIV medicines. To avoid problem, people with HIV should tell their doctors about all of the treatments they use, including all herbs, vitamins, and other supplements.
