If two or more drugs are present in the body at the same time, the liver can become so busy metabolizing one drug that metabolism of the second drug is delayed. Some possible interactions of recreational drugs with protease inhibitors are listed below. Keep in mind that there are a number of different protease inhibitors and that each may interact differently. Note that if you're taking the anti-retroviral ddi you should avoid alcohol as it can increase the risk of pancreatitis which has been fatal to some patients taking ddi. If you are going to drink, a limit of one drink per day is suggested.
Drug interactions are harmful or fatal if recreational drug levels reach toxic concentrations.
Some people who are taking protease inhibitors make the decision to use recreational drugs even while knowing the risks involved. Before making this decision, individuals should be informed of the potential for increased drug potency and the possible increased toxicity of the recreational drug. It is often also important to drink adequate amounts of water or other non-alcohol fluids when using some recreational drugs, to avoid dehydration. An option for people committed to using recreational drugs is to re-evaluate with your physician or primary care provider whether this is the right time in your life for taking protease inhibitors. There are alternative anti-retroviral regimens for people who cannot adhere to or are not ready for protease inhibitor regimens.