NVP 3TC and tenofovir.

[JessieJames]

I have been positive since 2003 and began ARV therapy in 2008.  I just switched from a 3 in 1 combo pill (NVP 3TC AZT) to a two in one tenofovir and 3TC and a single NVP.  (The side effects are not too bad; some fuzziness and diarrhea---initially there were headaches but that seems to have passed). 

I had really bad liver problems that prompted the switch.  I stayed with the AZT because it brought up my CD4 nearly 300 points.  I now hover at about 500.  Prior to the AZT, I was taking the NVP 3TC D4t combo and hovered at around 275. 

I know these are older meds, but I pay for all my medical care out of pocket.  The D4T caused the worst side effect, and until recently the AZT combo caused only minor effects.  Since switching to the tenofovir (nearly two weeks ago), the liver and GI pain has ceased, but I am having some mild side effects. 

However, I have had problems working full time on all of these meds.  They always cause some type of reaction.  I don't have much choice in my meds because I need to buy generics available in the country where I live. 

Does anyone else have trouble working full time?  I have never met any westerners that were positive.  My late wife seemed to deal with the side effects better than I have.  I am currently a consultant and can do some work at home, but lately, specifically because of the AZT problem, I have missed substantial work. 

I feel better when I can exercise, but I haven't been able to do so for a couple of months now.  I am new to the forums although I have been using the site for the last 10 years (Graph My Labs). 

I know I could be getting better treatment, but I cannot get health insurance. I am starting to get frustrated and a little depressed about my quality of life.  My lowest CD4 was 25 and I had TB and PCP.  Since then, my adherence has been excellent.  When I have missed a dose, it has been an accident and they were few and far between.  My wife died a few years ago and I was suicidal, but I kept taking my meds.  I might one day take myself out, but I will never go through the "guess the OI today" feeling of full blown AIDS.     

I know I haven't articulated a clear question, but I guess I would like to know more about meds and side effects and how to deal with them.  Am I being a wimp?  Do any of you have serious side effects from your meds?  How do you deal with them?