Question
I have not taken Biktarvy for a month…
27 February 2023. Related: Access to treatment, Adherence, All topics.
Due to travel, I went off Biktarvy for one full month after being on the drug for four years. I feel okay; my energy level and overall health seem good, but I have a constant runny nose and a cough. I cannot reach my doctor where I am; he alone knows my medical history. I can’t seem to find another case like mine online. What would you advise?
Thank you!
Answer
Hi, how are you doing?
Where are you? Are you able to get access to a doctor?
How long had you had these symptoms?
As you have been off Biktarvy for a month there is some risk that your viral load will have rebounded. This can lead to generalised symptoms of HIV like you are experiencing. But these are common of most infections and it is still very likely that your symptoms are being caused by a cold/cough.
Are you able to access a viral load test near where you are?
If you are unable to access Biktarvy, it would still be suitable to use ART even if it is different. This will help to maintain suppression of your viral load while you await returning to Biktarvy.
Josh
Hi Sami, it is great that you were able to get access to Biktarvy again. It’s also that you have been able to find a viral load test. DO keep us updated with how everything goes.
Thank you, Josh! I’ve now had these symptoms for 11 days. I will be able to access a viral load test in a week. I forgot to say that I started taking Biktarvy again 9 days ago.