Question
What time should I take my ARVs?
27 August 2013. Related: All topics, Starting treatment.
I recently discoverd that I’m HIV and pregnant and my CD4 is above 500. I just want to know what is the right time to drink medication? Because I eat at 18h30 and drink the tablets at 19h00 is it safe?
Answer
Hi,
I’m sorry to hear about your recent diagnosis but congratulations on your pregnancy!
The right time to take your medication will depend on which drugs you are taking. Can you tell me the names of the tablets you are taking?
Information about how to take different ARVs can be found on our meds page.
Hi Anele,
The time of day that ARVs are to be taken depends on the type of ARV. If you’re taking Atripla, or a generic version of Atripla its recommended to take these before bed. The reason is to help with any possible side effects.
If you work nights, just take them when before you go to bed in the morning.
Have you tried to take them at different times?
Are ARV HAVE TO BE TAKEN ONLY IN BED TIME…WHAT IF YOU WORK NIGHT SHIFT
Hi Nossy,
What medication are you taking for the HIV as well as the gastrointestinal problem? How long have you been on meds for?
iam HIV positive on medication the problem is iam gastrointestinal I told my doctor before he gave me meds so when I started first day was different than the following days now its burning my stomach and iam began to my period I couldn’t sleep I feel to not using my medication anymore before I was super fine
Hi Kgotlelo,
For how to take Anetef, please see here:
http://i-base.info/guides/1561
ARVs are safe to take when pregnant.
Hi I’m HIV positive and pregnant, my cd4 count is 550, and I started taking meds when I was 8 weeks pregnant, I’m taking atroiza and now anetef, so what is the best time can I take my meds and is it possible that my baby can be affected too?
Hi Patrica,
How are coping with your diagnoses? Are you able to get any support?
Your CD4 is low. However, they do go much lower. The important thing is that you now know that you’re positive. This means that you can begin to control your HIV. You’re already doing this by being on meds.
For what you need to be aware of when you have a low CD4 count, please see here:
http://i-base.info/qa/4643
For how to live well with HIV, please see here:
http://i-base.info/guides/side
Hi I am newly diagnosed,i am taking efavirenz and they’ve told me that my cd4 count is 39 and I am worried about my health,please advise me on how to stay healthy
Hi Scottie,
Info on how to take dolutegravir and Descovy can be found here:
http://i-base.info/guides/8851
http://i-base.info/guides/11371
Take them at a time that works best with your lifestyle.
When is the best time to take discovy and trivicay?