Documentary backdrop image for Getting High On HIV Medication (2014)

201433 minPGdocumentary

Getting High On HIV Medication

201433 minPGdocumentary

Efavirenz, an antiretroviral drug for HIV, has been linked to bizarre hallucinations and criminal behavior, prompting investigations into its effects in South Africa.

Genres

Channel: VICE

Getting High On HIV Medication

2014• 33 minPG

Synopsis

Efavirenz, an antiretroviral drug for HIV, has been linked to bizarre hallucinations and criminal behavior, prompting investigations into its effects in South Africa.

Synopsis

Efavirenz, an antiretroviral drug approved in 1998 for HIV treatment, is known for its effectiveness but also for causing unusual side effects, including vivid dreams and hallucinations. Reports from South African tabloids linked these effects to criminal behavior, prompting scientific investigation into the drug's hallucinogenic properties. Hamilton Morris travels to South Africa to engage with efavirenz users and dealers, exploring how this life-saving medication has become intertwined with a dangerous street drug known as "nyaope."

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