Question:

I am a 45 year old H.I.V.+ male. I am having problems with my cholesterol and triglycerides levels being high. I am also haveing a lot of circulatory problems. I am takeing Norvir, Viread, Epivir,and Reyataz. My question is would it be safe for me to take Niacin and vitamin B-complex with these meds?

Thank you for any advice you can give me.

Answer provided by:

Daniel Lee, M. D.
Assistant Clinical Professor of Medicine
UCSD Medical Center
Owen Clinic

In regards to your cholesterol and triglycerides, it is true that some of the HIV medications, especially protease inhibitors, can cause an increase in these levels. However, the HIV meds that you are taking are not typically one that causes high cholesterol or triglycerides. In fact, the Reyataz (which is a protease inhibitor) is one of the best meds in not causing high cholesterol or triglycerides. These levels may be high due to your diet or because of genetics. One can take niacin to lower cholesterol/triglyceride levels but I would recommend that you speak with your doctor first before starting so that your doctor will be able to monitor your changes. Vitamin B complex should be safe to take with your HIV medications. Thanks for your question and good luck.

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