I was diagnosed this year in March and began taking Atripla. A little more than a week later I developed a rash and my feet swelled and itched terribly. My doctor switched me to Truvada and Reyataz, and I have had no negative effects. My CD4 is going up and viral load is coming down, although is not undetectable yet. I would rather be taking one pill than three, and wonder if it is possible to try the Atripla again. I asked my doctor and she said this regimen I am on is working and I shouldn't go back. If it gave me a rash once is it certain that it will occur again?

Also, I am not taking Norvir with the Reyataz, and I keep reading that Norvir is effective in boosting the effects. My doctor tells me it isn't needed. Do you agree?

Thanks!

The risk for recurrence of the rash and other symptoms seems relatively high if you switch back from atazanavir to efavirenz from what data you provided. Norvir is supposed to be taken with atazanavir when taken with Truvada so I assume you are taking that as well (norvir + 300mg atazanavir + Truvada). Other boosted PIs and raltegravir are other options to consider but none are simpler then what you are now taking (Epzicom + atazanavir another option if HLA B5701 negative). KH