Question
Can I switch between Atripla and Acriptega?
29 November 2021. Related: All topics, Changing treatment.
I used to take Atripla for the last 3 years, my Viral Load is undetectable and CD4 is about 500 (37%). During my last visit to the doctor, I was switched to Acriptega. It has been one week since starting Acriptega. My question is, if I would like to switch back to Atripla, after one month on Acriptega (for some reasons) is it possible? Or I have already lost Efaverinz?
Answer
Hi, how are you doing?
Excellent news to hear that you are undetectable. Switching of your medication will have no effect on this status. Can I ask why you would like to switch back to Atripla? Both Atripla and Acriptega (TLA) are first line combinations as recommended by the WHO guidelines. They contain the same active drugs, except switching Efavirenz for Dolutegravir which work in slightly different ways.
Many people are being switched, as often TLD is more tolerable than Atripla. Atripla contains Efavirenz and is what most people find difficult, as it causes a number of side effects. This being said, if you would like to switch back it is important you inform your doctor. If the new combination of medication isn’t working for you it you need to flag this.
If you have another question please get in touch,
Josh.
Hi Prince, how much weight have you lost and over what time period. Atripla is a combination that contains efavirenz. It is efavirenz that has a possible link to reduced weight. It is common for people to switch to TLD (https://i-base.info/guides/14970). This drug contains dolutegravir instead of efavirenz. For this reason this combination is often much better tolerated by people and has far fewer side effects.
Hi l am on atripla right now but it’s making me loose alot of weight what is the best medicine to switch to.