Dr Boob (:

I've been on a boosted PI (Darunavir) and Truvada for a few months now - no real side-effects after the initial couple of weeks. Everything was fine until a few weeks ago - I went to the clinic as I had evidence of some sort of urethral (swab results still not back) infection and swollen lymph nodes in the left groin.

I was prescribed Doxycycline which Ive been taking for 7 days Ive had some really bad feelings whilst taking the antibiotic and am still having these feelings even though I finished the course two days ago. Question one is: How long does Doxy stay in the body and could the half life still be causing these symptoms (perhaps being boosted by the Ritonavir)? Second: The node in my groin is still really sore, Im tired, permanent headache and slightly dizzy could this be evidence of something more sinister? Ive convinced myself Ive got some sort of cancer

My CD4 has always been between 600-1700 (I started meds at 1300 as I became symptomatic) and Im currently undetectable on the boosted PI. Ive never missed a dose but am freaking out the meds may have failed and the virus my be replicating in my CNS, which is causing symptoms similar to those that lead to me starting meds..

Ive been feeling unwell for three weeks now and have an appointment to see my doctor next week but could do with some advice now..

Thanks

Hi,

The real question is whether you have worrisome symptoms or symptoms from worrying. I'd bet on the latter.

Regarding your urethral infection, did you place yourself at risk for an STD? If so, why the lapse in judgement? The STD screening test results should definitely be back by now. Call your doctor for a phone report.

Doxycycline should be cleared from your system within several days after the last dose. (Your ritonavir would not affect it.)

I cannot evaluate your symptoms over the Internet. Your HIV specialist will do this (including a physical examination) when you see him next week. I do not believe this is something "sinister" or serious. I also do not believe you have cancer or that your previously well-controlled virus is now replicating wildly out of control.

Try not to worry so much. I'm confident your HIV specialist will be able to sort this out for you and that it is nothing serious, OK?

Good luck.

Dr. Bob