Question
What should I expect from starting Odimune?
30 October 2012. Related: All topics, South Africa, Starting treatment.
I have been positive for 14 years without any complications, nothing.
A few months ago, I had some tingling started around my eyes and then a rash (not severe).
I decided it was time for treatment, visited the doctor, did the necessary tests (CD4 = 247) and (viral load = 12,000 copies).
Treatment regime = Odimune.
I researched this and am scared. Please explains what happens from here on with regards to HIV progression to AIDS, and what does odimune exactly do? Apart from the doc explains?
Answer
Odimune contains three HIV medications – efavirenz, FTC and tenofovir. It is a generic version of Atripla. This link has more information about this combination.
This is a very effective treatment combination that is very widely used. It is recommended in many countries including the UK, USA and South Africa for first line treatment.
Although it’s normal to be concerned when starting treatment this is the only way to stay well in the long term. When you start treatment your viral load will go down very quickly. Your CD4 count will increase over time.
Without treatment your body is vulnerable to infections, and eventually to AIDS progression. But by starting treatment your immune system will get stronger. With treatment the life expectancy for people with HIV is about the same as for HIV negative people.
For more information about starting treatment please see our Introduction to combination therapy guide.
Hi Bitha,
Its very common that people feel dizzy when they first start taking Odimune. This is something that should go within a few weeks. If it doesn’t then you may need to change meds. The dizziness however may be related to the time of day that you’re taking your meds. For how Odimune should be taken, please see here:
http://i-base.info/guides/1561
I’m always dizzy even in the morning. I started Odimune last Tuesday. How long will I continue being like this?
Hi Docprinc,
There are some meds that may cause changes in skin colour. This isn’t though related to a persons CD4. What meds are you on?
Does your face change colour when you start meds? Does your CD4 influence this?
Hi Tshifhiwa,
For me to be able to tell you if there will be any drug interactions, I’ll need to know what ARVs you’re taking.
Is the any problem when you are taking cipla actin with arv?
Hi Dee,
What meds are you on? What vitamins are you taking?
I’m taking vitamins its ok for my health?
Hi Joseph,
If you’re worried about transmission please see Q 1 here:
http://i-base.info/qa/what-are-the-most-asked-questions
When someone is HIV positive, if their viral load is undetectable the risk of transmission is close to zero. Please see here for more info:
http://i-base.info/qa-on-the-partner-study/
Is it dangerous to have sex with someone who is on Atripla?