Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2006. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.I'm a 30 y.o. man, and tested positive in March. Just started on regimen of Sustiva, Combivir and Bactrim. About a day ago I noticed a rash begining to appear, and it got worse overnight. It's is very itchy and slightly raised from the skin, mostly on my chest and back, but arms too. Should I be worried, treat with benadryl, or go to the emergency room, or stop taking the meds until it goes away? Pharmacists recommended that, and I don't have a primary doctor to ask.
Mark H. Katz, M.D.
Regional HIV/AIDS Physician Coordinator
Kaiser Permanente of Southern California
Two of the medications you are taking--the Sustiva and the Bactrim--could easily be responsible for a rash. There is a fine art to advising on discontinuing 1 or all of your meds. I would definitely speak to the prescribing physician about this. Also, if you are a sexually active person, as your provider would know, certain sexually transmitted infections--notably syphilis--can present with a similar-looking rash. You should be screened for this if appropriate.
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