Edward and I were both prescribed Sustiva and our physicians were fully aware of our substance abuse issues and depression. Mine being alcohol, siezure and bipolar disorder, his being D-methamphetamine and clinical depression.

We were never told that this medication could be a problem for us.

The documentation clearly states not to give this medication to people diagnosed with depression and/or substance abuse problems.

I hate lawsuits, but I believe we have a valid claim here.

Ed lost his job taking it, and it cost me two months of work.

As a result, we are in financial ruin.

A few notes from the PDR.

Special warnings about Sustiva

If you develop delusions, inappropriate behavior, severe depression, or suicidal thoughts, call your doctor immediately. Sustiva could be the cause, and may have to be discontinued. If you've suffered mental illness, substance abuse, or depression in the past, make sure the doctor is aware of this before therapy begins.

Roughly half the people taking Sustiva develop symptoms such as dizziness, lack of concentration, or drowsiness. Avoid driving or operating machinery while these symptoms occur. They are likely to improve with continued therapy, generally within 2 to 4 weeks.

One of the most common side effects of Sustiva is skin rash. Most rashes usually clear up on their own. However, for roughly one patient in 100, the drug causes a severe rash associated with blistering, skin peeling, and fever. If you develop this type of rash, call your doctor. You may have to stop taking Sustiva.

Because Sustiva has occasionally caused convulsions, use the drug with caution if you have a history of seizures. Your doctor will monitor you closely during treatment with Sustiva if you're also taking antiseizure drugs such as phenytoin (Dilantin), carbamazepine (Tegretol), or phenobarbital.

Another side effect seen in some people receiving drugs for HIV is a redistribution of body fat, leading to extra fat around the middle, a "buffalo hump" on the back, and wasting in the arms, legs, and face. Researchers don't know whether this represents a long-term health problem or not.

In a few patients, Sustiva has toxic effects on the liver. If you've had hepatitis or must take other medications that could damage the liver, your doctor will probably check your liver function regularly.

Sustiva also has a tendency to raise cholesterol levels in some patients. If you have a cholesterol problem, your doctor may test for this as well.

Remember that Sustiva does not completely eliminate HIV from the body. The virus can still be passed to others during sex or through blood contamination.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking this medication

Be sure to avoid combining Sustiva with Versed, Halcion, or any of the migraine medications listed under "Why should Sustiva not be prescribed?".

If Sustiva is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Sustiva with the following:

Alcohol <---HELLO!
Amprenavir (Agenerase)
Carbamazepine (Tegretol) <----- HELLO
Clarithromycin (Biaxin) <---- HELLO
Indinavir (Crixivan)
Itraconazole (Sporanox)
Ketoconazole (Nizoral)
Methadone (Dolophine)
Nelfinavir (Viracept)
Oral Contraceptives containing ethinyl estradiol, such as Estinyl, Ovcon, and Ovral
Phenobarbital
Phenytoin (Dilantin) <----- HELLO
Rifabutin (Mycobutin)
Rifampin (Rifadin and Rimactane)
Ritonavir (Norvir)
Saquinavir (Fortovase and Invirase)
St. John's wort
Warfarin (Coumadin)

The more I read the angrier I get.

I have a substance abuse problem and history of siezures and have Hep-B.

What were they thinking?!

Hunterdon County, NJ has one HIV guy, and he is dangerous to those in his care.

It is going to stop…

Any ideas who I should call 1st?

Release the hounds!