Question:
3/13/97 Dr. Drs: For several years I've been on Azt(3 years) and then the addition of 3tc last year. For several months
I've been on Invirase. My numbers got better and the viral load went to zero but went back up to 4000. 2 months ago, We
dropped azt and replaced it with ddc, d4t and continued with invirase and 3tc. My last numbers were 377 T-cells and viral
load of 1,300. My doctor has switched me to Norvir 4x2=8 per day and invirase 5x2=10 per day with both 3tc 1x2=2
and d4t 1x2=2 per day. We check my chem panel in 3 weeks and wait. I'm having some peripheral neuropathy in my
finger tips and my tongue and my lips. I understand I'm supposed to "tough it out". What do you think of the addition of
Viramune? I was rejected for a study for Adefovir because I'm too healthy( my viral load was below 2,500). A shame
because I have the active antigen for chronic active Hep B since 1981. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated?
Dr. Torres' Response:
Most likely the ddC is causing the peripheral neuropathy; I would consider
stopping that drug, or substituting it with another one; nevirapine or
delavirdine are both good choices. Consult with your doctor first of course.
Ramon Torres, MD
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