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Please Note: Due to volume considerations, not all questions can be answered. Questions most likely to be answered will be those of general interest to a broad group of visitors to this forum. Questions pertaining to a specific case; requests for diagnosis, medical advice, or second opinion; or requests for opinions about untested alternative therapies will generally not be answered.

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Truvada & Reyataz without Norvir
Nov 5, 2007

I was diagnosed with HIV 3 1/2 months ago. Since that time, while I have been taking Atripla, my CD4 count has gone from 249 to 205. My VL has gone from 103,000 to <50. My doctor wants me to take Truvada and Reyataz only. I cannot find any support in any literature to support this. Everything I read states that if you take tenofovir, and you are going to take reyataz, you must take norvir. Can you point me to any research supporting my physicians position? What is your opinion based on the limited amount of information I have given you?

Response from Dr. Daar

It sounds like you are doing great on your current therapy. Without knowing more specifics regarding your particular situation it is difficult for me to respond to your questions. In general terms you are correct that tenofovir (which is part of truvada) reduces the levels of reyataz, and it is for this reason that it is recommended that in this seeting reyataz levels be boosted by norvir.

I would suggest you share your reading and questions with your provider. In fact, I would encourage all patients to feel free to discuss any concerns they have with their provider. This type of open communication ultimately ends up being good for everyone.

Best, Eric



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