As discussed in the previous question, just over half of the people who
took Sustiva in clinical trials experienced one or more central nervous
system (CNS) symptoms. These symptoms usually begin during the first or
second day of therapy and generally resolve after the first 2-4 weeks
of therapy. While there are a number of ways to describe these problems,
they can be broken down into five different categories:
Dizziness: One of the most commonly reported CNS effects,
patients can feel lightheaded or unsteady and, in some cases, experience
a loss of balance. Some patients compare this effect to feeling "drunk",
"stoned", or "hungover".
Problems Sleeping: Some people may feel drowsy and sleep
more than usual, while others may have a difficult time falling or
remaining asleep. Problems sleeping – which can also include
vivid dreams and/or nightmares – are also considered common CNS
side effects of Sustiva, and can last for several weeks after starting
therapy.
Altered Moods: Some of the mood changes include euphoria,
disorientation, anxiety, irritability, nervousness, and depression.
Impaired Concentration: A sudden lack of focus or feeling
"spacey". Short-term memory loss can also occur. These symptoms
can be especially disconcerting to "high-functioning" people.
Serious Psychiatric Symptoms: Although very rare, these can
include severe depression, suicide attempts, aggressive behavior,
delusions, paranoia and psychosis-like symptoms. Patients with a prior
history of psychiatric disorders appear to be at greater risk for
these serious psychiatric adverse experiences.
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