Second attempt at taking meds, different meds, same result, intolerable rash

[Teacher]

Hi all,

I'm 37 years old, female.  I have been positive for a few years.  My doctor first put me on Truvada, Reyataz and Norvir.  I did great until around day 9 when I developed a terrible rash.  I got huge flat hives that began to merge together.  My doc was dumbfounded and had me stop all meds.  About 6 months later, (a few weeks ago), I started another combo Nevarpine and Truvada.  I did great for 10 days and then boom...terrible rash...burning feet...I started to get the chills.....later because of the burning I had to sleep with icepacks on my feet...my upper arms looked as if they were sunburned.  Benedryl, Claritin did absolutely nothing to stop the rash.  I couldn't go to work.  I had to stop the Nevarapine and go on Pregnisol.  I'm still taking the Truvada for 5 more days, so I don't become resistent to a whole class of drugs.  The doc doesn't think the Truvada is the culprit.  So...it looks like I'm allergic to nevarapine and either Reyataz or Norvir.  I'm hesitant to try yet another combo and develop a new rash.  It seems that others are able to withstand and get over these rashes, and continue the medication...My doctor's first inclination was to "treat through" the rash....however, my body rejected this idea.  Has anyone else experienced such severe skin reactions? 

[BT65]

Hi teacher,

I haven't experienced any rash from the meds I've been on.  It might be helpful to read our lessons on the meds at this link:

http://www.aidsmeds.com/list.shtml

Could make discussing what meds to go on with your doctor a little easier.

Oh, welcome to the forums.

[Pippet]

Hi Teacher,
   First of all, sorry to hear your having problems finding a combo you can tolerate.  As you can see, I had a terrible time finding a combo my body would put up with.  Viramune gave me a terrible rash that there was no "working trough".   I just wanted to add some words of encouragement and tell you to hang in there.  There is a combo that will work for you.  We don't all find it on the first try.

Best Wishes,
Pip

[rolf1]

yeah, i got in the beginning after a few days taking meds a really ugly rush. but my doctor says i should 'working through' this and so i stayd on the meds. and after ca. 1 1/2 month the rash suddenly was reduced and is now completely gone. in my opinion is it the reaction of the bodey to the strong and not used medications. but as i heard from many who had to deal with this issue in the beginning (partly with really strong rash) that after a while, when the body get used to the meds it will go away.
on my part i have to say, sure i didn't endure such a rash and pain like you and i really hope you will find your combo which is working for you, but keep in mind that there is for sure some reaction from the body to every combo til it get used to it.

take care