Question
Is my doctor right to stop my medications?
14 March 2009. Related: All topics, CD4 and viral load, Changing treatment, Side effects, Starting treatment.
I started treatment ten weeks ago. Since then I have suffered headaches, sickness, insomnia and generally feeling unwell. My meds have been changed once and today, at the hospital, my doctor has decided too stop my meds altogether. Although I have these side affects, the meds did seem to be working, because my CD4 has gone from 317 to 345. My viral load has come down to almost undetectable. Is it normal to stop meds? I was under the impression that once started meds could not be stopped.
Answer
Sometimes, some people have very severe side effects or side effects that can be detected only via further (usually blood). Some of those side effects can develop into serious conditions. In those cases, it may be necessary to stop the medications.
Usually, however, a switch or intervening with medications that deal with the side effects is enough.
Your doctor must have had a reason to stop the nedicines altogether.
I am afraid, I cannot comment further at the moment, as I do not know your current combination and your previous one (you mention that it has been changed once).
I would suggest you call us at: 0808 800 6013, Mon-Wed 12-4pm. This is our treatment phoneline. All calls are confidential, of course, and also free of charge from landlines.
In the meantime, you may take a look at our treatment guides that cover many aspects of living with HIV, including side effects, changing treatment, etc.
Once we know your treatment history, we will be able to provide you with more exact information.
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