Question
Do I need to worry if I am late with my meds?
30 May 2006. Related: Adherence, All topics, Resistance.
I have been on Sustiva/Truvada for just under a year. I normally take the meds within a 3 hour window. Last night I fell asleep, got up and took them 4 1/2 hours late.
Do you think this is cause for alarm?
Answer
If your viral load is undetectable, then the risk of developing resistance from one late dose is probably very low. Nearly everyone will occasionally miss a dose at some time without it affecting their viral load.
If you are late regularly – even once a month – this would increase the risk though, and finding ways to help you remember is a good idea.
Also, although the particular drugs you are taking usually allow a window period without risking very low drug levels, this would be better if you aimed for a one-hour window, and not the 3-hour window that you use now. The best results are likely to come from taking your meds as close to the same time every day.
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