Face HIV with Dr. Watiti

Dear Doctor,
Recently when I went to collect my ARVs from the clinic, I was given only Combivir because Efavirenz was out of stock. What should I do because I was once told never to miss any dose. Can I change and swallow Nevirapine instead since I hear it is similar to Efavirenz or I take Combivir alone for now?
Peace

Dear Peace,
ART regimens or combinations should not be changed casually as this affects the way they work to block the replication of HIV in the body.
It is a pity you were given only part of your regimen and you should not take it because it is not good.

ARVs must be taken in combinations of at least three drugs for maximum effect. This is what is refered to as highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART).

Though Nevirapine and Efavirenz are similar, they should not be used interchangeably because the dosages are different and they also have different side effects.

If the stock is out for a short time, wait until you have all the three drugs and then restart. But this should be avoided as much as possible by having buffer stocks at the health centre where you are treated.

It should be the work of your health care providers.