Many missed HIV medication doses. Still fine.

[BBtmcunt]

I’ve been diagnosed poz for 10 years.
Past 2 years, I’ve probably only taken about 8 bottles (8 month worth) of my HIV meds (Dovato). I went for my regular bloodwork and everything came back normal, including my lymphocyte subset panel and HIV came back undetected. 

I’m wondering if even need to take HIV meds? 

 

[NastyRigPig]

It might be helpful if your doc knew this and could get you into a clinical trial.  There might be a way to remain undetectable on much lower dosages.   Of course, the drug companies would hate that. 

[funpozbottom]

Disclaimer: Just because I reply, doesn't mean I know what I'm talking about.

There are a couple thing I can think of that may be going on. First, HIV and PreP medication doses are higher than needed for viral suppression. These meds are (almost) as effective if taken every other day compared to taken daily.  One reason they are prescribed as a daily med is that it is easier for people to remember to take them daily instead of trying to remember an alternate day regimen.  Even though you are missing doses, it could be that you are still taking enough to maintain viral suppression. Another possibility is that you are an "elite controller" which means your body is able to keep the virus under control on its own. It would be good to talk to your doctor about it and they could test for or monitor your ability to maintain viral suppression without meds, or they might switch you to one of the newer, longer lasting meds like the injectable which is one dose every two months. 

I hope you're able to continue keeping the virus under control. Reduced meds means lower costs and lower impacts to your liver and kidneys.