hi dr i just tested positive after having been infected for nearly 4-5 years.i am a male of 29 yrs with no other health problems.i am looking for an expert hiv specialist around my area with whom i can work with.i will really appreciate if you can prepare drug regimen for me thats less toxic and more potent.peripheral neuropathy and lipoatrophy aspects should also be considered. then i will get another opinion from my doctor. thanks for taking your time.

steve

Dear Steve,

There are now several excellent choices for initial HIV therapy. The regimens that are preferred are those that have proven to be effective with the least toxicity. The actual combination that is best for you has much to do with you - including your schedule, ability to take medications, other medical issues and other medications you are taking - as with the medications. There is no one best regimen that is right for everyone.

Research has shown that the drug Sustiva is very powerful and generally well tolerated. Drugs in the protease inhibitor family such as Kaletra and Reyataz+Norvir and Lexiva+Norvir and Prezista+Norvir are also potent. Both Sustiva and these protease inhibitor drugs are usually combined with other HIV drugs such as Truvada or Epzicom.

In a recent large study comparing Sustiva and Kaletra, Kaletra led to lower rates of lipoatrophy when taken with other HIV drugs. The rate of fat wasting was lowest for those on tenofovir and 3TC (similar to Truvada).

None of the drug combos mentioned above should cause neuropathy. But each combo has its own list of potential side effects.

So, as you can see, picking a regimen is a bit tricky and requires the input of a professional who knows their stuff and a good bit about you. Ask your doctor what is best given your concerns - that is what they are paid to do. Then write back with what they recommend.

DW