What to say to Doctor?

[Ocean_Lover]

I started Atripla just about 2 months ago.

I have a very unusual job where my sleep pattern adjusts from day to day. I travel for work and have to adjust or otherwise spend the evening awake which is a drag.

I have been prescribed 20mg of Ambien to go along with the Atripla and since I have had zero side effects. I go to sleep on time, wake up on time with zero hangover effect and able to get out of bed, in shower, workout, work etc.

How do I ensure my sleeping meds are not decreased? Before I was prescribed 10mg and that did not do a darn thing, I would still just sit there and stare at the celling, kind of worried.

[mikeyb39]

hi Ocean,
How do you get prescribed 20mg, i didn't think their was a 20mg pill.  I take the 10mg, but sometimes i need a half of another to stay asleep.  I know how you feel though before Atripla i didn't sleep well and after its gotten little worse, so i find myself running out of my prescriptions 5 to 7 days sooner.  uggggg

[Ocean_Lover]

Mike,

I had it changed from 10mg (1 pill) to 20mg (2 pills) nightly. My Doctor says it is above the suggested amount to be taken. I know the risks and with no studies on Atripla on how it will affect later down the line, I do not want to hear what 20mg might do=) I care about keeping my job and being able to sleep in order to maintain a proper workout schedule. I am addicted to working out and I enjoy doing it=) It is just a relief knowing when I take the Atripla I will have no side affects and be knocked out till my alarm goes off. Like yourself I was running out atleast 7 days to early and having to suffer. I wish you the best of luck and maybe ask your Dr to bump up dosage.

[newt]

There is no properly studied and recommended dose of Ambien to deal with Sustiva side effects, so to me suggested is the key word in your post.

- matt