Question
Can i change the time i take my ARVs?
29 January 2016. Related: Adherence, All topics.
I take my ARVs at 8am and 8pm. Can i change it to 10am and 10pm?
Answer
Hi,
This is not a problem as long as you consistently take them at the new time. Jumping back and forth mean you have a risk of developing resistance. This would mean your meds would stop working well.
People do change the time they take their meds for all sorts of reasons though. Again this is ok as long as you keep taking regularly at the new time.
The only concern about switching from evening to morning is if your combination include the drug efavirenz. Efavirenz needs to be taken 1-2 hours before you sleep, so you reduce side effects.
I switched my medication from 8pm to 8am but now I feel more sick. I am very worried and losing more weight.
Hello Nella and thanks for getting in touch.
What has your doctor said about this?
Just switching the time you take your medication should not affect you that much, unless you are taking an efavirenz based combination, which should always be taken at night.
It’s important that you also check that you don’t combine your ARVs with supplements, especially if your ARV medication contains dolutegravir.
If that is the case try to leave six hours before and after dolutegravir to take supplements
Please discuss your symptoms with your doctor as they can help you and prescribe tests and medication they can help you manage your symptoms