Response from Dr. Frascino
Hi,
Over 50% of folks who start Sustiva report undesirable side effects. Of these, the vast majority note the undesirable effects decrease to a very tolerable level within four to six weeks. Approximately 5% of folks ultimately need to discontinue Sustiva due to ongoing problems.
As for ways to suppress the "vivid dreams" side effects with diet and other methods, here's what's been tried with some success:
1. Sustiva taken with food increases blood levels and possibly may increase side effects, so taking it on an empty stomach might help.
2. Using a sedative, such as ativan, trazadone or haldol, for several weeks might help; although the vivid dreams may return when the sedative is discontinued.
3. Splitting the dose by taking 200 mg in the morning and 400 mg in the evening might help.
4. Switch off Sustiva to another medication in the same class that doesn't have this particular side effect, i.e. Viramune.
5. Try to change your intense action drama dreams into the more desirable sexual ones by watching your favorite porno tapes before going to sleep. At least you'll wake up exhausted and satisfied, rather than just exhausted. (OK, OK, I just made that last one up, but hey . . . . )
Good luck. You do have options if this is becoming a quality of life issue. Talk to your HIV specialist and pleasant dreams!
Dr. Bob
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