depression and more

[vasky]

Hello everyone,
I am looking for a little guidance. My boyfriend is positive, was diagnosed 2 years ago. We have been together for 4 months. He has told me that his depression and HIV diagnosis happened simultaneously. The last month his depression seems to be controlling him and he is having a lot of stomach problems. He tells me that those are normal that that's the reaction to the medicines he is taking. He goes once a month to the doctor and the psychiatrists. We live in Mexico city and he is being treated by social security, they are fantastic doctors and they provide him with all his medications for free. I am worried that he is stepping into a vicious cycle where he is not emotionally well and physically doesn't feel well (bloated, diarrhea, gases). My question is are his digestive problems a reaction to the medicine? Are there any suggestions from more knowledgeable people on how I can help him?

thanks,
Patty

[Matty the Damned]

Hey Patty,

I take it you're referring to HIV medications causing his tummy troubles? Stomach and bowel problems are a common side effect of many HIV meds. What combo (if any) is your fella taking?

MtD

[lydgate]

And what antidepressants, or other psychotropic medications -- if any -- is he on?

Jay

[vasky]

MtD and Jay;
I will ask him for the names of all his meds and let you know as soon as I have them

THANKS

[Matty the Damned]

Good-oh love.

MtD

[vasky]

Hello,
I have the name of the meds now, unfortunately they are in Spanish, Hopefully the names are similar in English.
Vidanocina, Videz, Ritonavir, Saquinavir, Omeprazol, anfebutonamona (the last one is an antidepressant)

Thanks

[lydgate]

Anfebutanoma is bupropion (Wellbutrin is the brand name). If he's been taking this medication for a while, it's unlikely that its the culprit for his GI issues. The diarrhea and dyspepsia associated with antidepressants usually goes away within two weeks. Most likely, it's the boosted protease inhibitor regimen (saquinavir + ritonavir) that's causing the tummy troubles. (Omeprazole fights stomach acidity.) I'll let people who know more about this stuff comment on this but you should check out the AidsMeds "lessons" on dealing with side-effects of HIV meds. Also search the forum "Treatment and Side Effects." Finally: if the bloating, diarrhea etc are seriously interfering with his quality of life, he should certainly talk to his doctors about it.

Jay

[vasky]

Thank you very much Jay for your response. I will look into your suggestions.

Patty