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Ask the Experts about Choosing Your Meds
main side effects for ATRIPLA
Sep 30, 2008
I've been infected since 1991 and have been on everything. I have been on Atripla for 5 weeks and haven't heard to much about the side efects. Is there a lower chance of any kind of wasting?. Are people experencing side efects that aren't listed on the insert you recive from the pharmacy?At night when I take it I get light headed. Is that normal?.
Thanks a lot,
Robby
Response from Dr. McGowan
Robby,
It is very important to go over possible side effects of any new medication with your health care provider before starting the meds. That way if you experience anything you will be able to anticipate it and know how to deal with it. Atripla has 3 medications in it. The most common side effects initially may be a little GI bloating. Also the lightheadedness you describe is quite common. One of the medications in Atripla, efavirenz, can cause some change in mood, dzziness, anxiety and sleep disturbance (including vivid dreams). We recommend that people take Atripla before bedtime so they can sleep through some of these CNS (central nervous system) side effects. It is also best to take the medicine on an empty stomach (2 hours after eating) to help lessen these effects. In addition to these, rash can be seen in up to a quarter or patients. Most rashes are mild and occur within about 2-4 weeks of starting treatment. The combination has a fairly low chance of developing wasting, however there is one study that showed a rate of about 12% after 2 years.
Good luck on your treatment.
Joe
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