Question
Why do I suffer from headache when taking Atripla?
10 February 2012. Related: All topics, Side effects, Starting treatment.
I have been taking atripla for almost four weeks and the headaches dont go away. They are getting strong is this normal ?
Answer
I’m sorry to hear that you are experiencing side effects.
Atripla contains 3 different types of HIV medication, in one pill. These are made up of FTC, tenofovir and efavirenz. Efavirenz is known to cause side effects such as dizziness, headache and impaired concentration.
Most side effects will eventually go away – it can take days, weeks or even months. But if you cannot tolerate the side effects then you can may be able to change your medication. Once you change to a newer drug, the side effects should go away.
There are a small percentage of people who cannot tolerate certain drugs. You could be one of these people.
If the side effects still do not go away, then you need to discuss this with your HIV doctor. They can replace the drug, which is causing the side effect. Further test and monitoring are required when changing drugs.
Please take a look at the link below for more detailed information on side effects
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