Question

What causes Sustiva to have effects on the brain?

27 May 2011. Related: All topics, Changing treatment, Side effects.

I have been on Sustiva for a while now and shortly after taking it, I always get a feeling of being very ‘high’ and extremely drunk, to the point where I cannot stand or talk properly.

I’ve read about other people refering to the drug similar to being ‘stoned’ or on acid but as I have never experienced either of these, I was just wondering what exactly causes Sustiva to have these effects on the brain?

I understand Sustiva affects the CNS but what exactly does it do to make me feel so drunk, surely this isn’t good for the brain.

Thanks in anticipation.

Answer

Answer: Charlotte Walker

Thank you for your question.

Not very much is known about how exactly efavirenz works in the brain to cause the side effects you describe and why some people have these symptoms and others don’t. It is a very difficult area to research due to the brain and CFS being so hard to access and test for drug levels etc.

There is also little known about toxicity and whether or not the brain is damaged by the drugs. This study was done recently found that some concentrations of ARVs can carry some risk of neuronal damage.

If you are having these side effects then it is very important that you talk to your doctor about changing treatment. For more information please ready this similar question.