Question
Apprehensions about switching to Biktarvy…
7 January 2023. Related: All topics, Changing treatment.
Hi. I’ve been taking the same medication for over 10 years with good effect but have agreed to change to Biktarvy (sp) next week. This is due to ease and less contraindications rather than a problem with my current regime. I feel a bit nervous so any encouragement would be great but I’m mainly asking as now there is no food restrictions I’m considering changing from taking it with my tea to having it with breakfast. Is there any feedback among people taking it that later on in the day is better? Any tips on supporting the change? I have taken my pills every day without fail, even whilst in labour, so tea time is very ingrained with me but feel morning might be easier in some ways. I only have a lie in one a year so sleeping in shouldn’t be an issue. Thanks
Answer
Hi, how are you doing?
Biktarvy does not cause problems with sleep and side effects are rare. For this reason, there is no restriction on when to take it in the day unlike some other ARVs.
Switching time and drug is rather simple. You can take your old regimen as you normally do and then the next day continue immediately with Biktary at the new time you would like your medication. There is no special thing that you need to do or wait for. As you switching drugs, there is also low risk of side effects for having higher than normal levels of ARV in your body as they will work differently.
As long as you feel taking Biktarvy in the morning will be better suited for you, there is no reason not to switch the time of your medication. It’s most important that you medication fits around you and not the other way around.
Hello Mel and thanks for getting in touch
Officially, in the product characteristics, Biktarvy has bloating and joint pain as “uncommon” side effects.
This means these side effects will present in 1 in 1000 to 1 in 100 people (less than 1%).
However, if this is your experience it’s wise to raise it with your doctor.
They can run extra tests and investigations to determine why you are experiencing these side effects.
Also, try eating food that you tolerate well and avoid spicy and fried food.
Try healthy and often meals.
Also, ask for a referral to physiotherapy that can assess these new pains and suggest exercises to help you.
If your symptoms are side effects they should resolve in a few months, however you don’t have to wait before raising them.
Hi have been taking biktarvy for about 4 weeks I am getting a lot of,pain in my feet,and when I walk and bloating I am eating a good diet but still have,a big tummy
Will these ease as apart from this I am ok
Hi Richard, thanks. This med is not klinked to lipodystrophy, but your doctor should still have explained this.
Mentioned to health worker that Biktarvy has given me lipodystrophy but they ignored my question. Ccould be serious?