Fuzeon users: are you planning to switch?

[allanq]

It looks like raltegravir, the Merck integrase inhibitor, is on track for FDA approval in mid-October.

I was wondering whether current Fuzeon users are planning to switch to raltegravir.


Allan

[Miss Philicia]

yes

[Catman]

My next appointment with my doc is on the 16 this month. I'll touch this topic and do whatever is best. I really would like to end with those needles, at least for some time.

[RAB]

SIGH!

I've just spent 10 minutes trying to do an injection in my thigh.  An area which a year ago I would have never even considered.  But after nearly 4 years on this drug you eventually run out of options where to inject.   

The one thing I want to stress  is this.  Fuzeon is a good drug when used in conjunction with other meds to provide a durable regimen.  I've been <50 for nearly 4 years (even though my doctor at the time said I had no options and would have to accept something less than full viral suppression).  Clearly it works.  The only problem is that after a while the ISRs become worse and they last longer.  The first 2 or 3 years were fairly easy.  This past 9 months have become worse.

I have my 3 month appointment tomorrow with my doctor, assuming he's still confident a change will not compromise viral suppression, then I'm switching as soon as I can.

Fuzeon will be put back on the shelf, an effective alternative in the future, should I need it.  But right now, I'm done with it.

RAB

(Who's body is literally covered with red welts and isn't going to pretend it's a cake walk, cause sometimes it isn't.  )

[Miss Philicia]

I agree with everything you said RAB -- fuzeon has worked for me liked nothing else ever has, and I'm very thankful.  Not just given me great lab numbers but physically I feel 100% better, and that's what it's about.  I've only been on it for 16 months and I'm already having more issues with ISR's.  Maybe not like you are but I can see the writing on the wall from other comments in the forum (hello Catman!).

Fuzeon will still be on that shelf, yes -- but it will really be great to be off of it.  At least I will know what all it involves should I ever need it again.

[Rusty]

I stuck Fuzeon on the shelf Dec 06 after using it for 18 months as the ISRs were unbearable. I switched the Fuzeon for etravirine and it kept me fully supressed and still am now. I added raltigravir 2 months ago and my cd4s are creeping up as well.

Rusty

[Miss Philicia]

Interesting, Rusty -- and great to hear!