It has been 4 months since beginnig my first combo of meds. After much reluctance, I choose the Reyataz, Truvada and Norvir combo because Reyataz had the least side effects thus far! My question is, can I rid the Norvir(ritonavir) from this once a day regimine? Can I subsitute it by increasing the Reyataz dosage and changing this once a day regimine?

Thank you for your post.

There is considerable interest in whether people can safely start two RT inhibitors and Reyataz with norvir and then stop the norvir, particularly if they are already undetectable. Some studies are underway to answer this question and there certainly is reason to believe that it may be a viable strategy. That said, data is limited so the risks and benefits need to be carefully discussed with your expert provider.

It is important to note that the above proposed strategy will not apply to those on Truvada (tenofovir plus FTC) as the RT inhibitors. The reason for this is that tenofovir reduces the levels of Reyataz, therefore these drugs can only be used together when the Reyataz is boosted by norvir.

Best, Eric