In an earlier report, patients on antiretroviral therapy explained how crucially important counselling is when taking such medication. In the third part of this series focusing on the complexities of this treatment for HIV/AIDS, we look at the issue of side-effects experienced by some patients taking the drugs. Like all medidcation, anti-retroviral therapy has certain side effects. Elaine Maane, who withdrew from therapy trials run by the Somerset Hospital HIV/AIDS research unit, told Khopotso Bodibe of her adverse reaction to the drugs.

In this final audio report on the divergent experiences of two women taking anti-retroviral therapy under trials run by Somerset Hospital, in Cape Town, we hear about the social issues related to the provision of therapy.