Leo114:
I am starting meds for the first time. Very nervous about the side effects of these meds. Is anyone familiar with this combo?
Mark Too:
I have been on this combo for 3 1/2 years already. No side effect as far as I can tell. Don't worry.
Leo114:
Thanks Mark. Any initial reactions? Do you recommend taking them at night before bed in the morning?
NESAROCO:
--- Quote from: Leo114 on April 25, 2013, 08:16:11 pm ---Thanks Mark. Any initial reactions? Do you recommend taking them at night before bed in the morning?
--- End quote --- I have had one week taking this combo in the night some effects were dizzy, nauseous and yellow eyes, some one has those effects? thanks
Ann:
--- Quote from: NESAROCO on May 16, 2013, 11:05:55 pm ---I have had one week taking this combo in the night some effects were dizzy, nauseous and yellow eyes, some one has those effects? thanks
--- End quote ---
Ritonavir (Norvir) can make some people nauseous and/or give them diarrhea. These are well-known side effects of this med and often subside within a few weeks.
Increased - but not harmful - bilirubin levels are a common side-effect from Reyataz (atazanavir) and that is what makes your eyes yellow. This is something that may also subside within a few weeks, but it does persist in some people.
If it's a problem, a simple switch to another, very similar PI called Prezista (darunavir) - which does not carry this side effect of increased bilirubin levels - may be in order. Switching to Prezista does not mean you'd have to change any other of your hiv meds.
You should give this combo a few more weeks (4-6 or so) and if things don't settle down, it would be time to talk to your doctor about it. Give your body a chance to adjust before you hit the panic button.
You can read more about the meds you're on (and what side-effects they may cause) in our Treatments pages.