EMTRICITABINE,TENOFOVIR ALAFENAMIDE
Background and Date of Approval
Emtricitabine + Tenofovir alafenamide is a combination antiretroviral agent. Emtricitabine is a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI), and Tenofovir alafenamide is a nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NtRTI). The combination received FDA approval in September 2015 for medical use.
Uses
Emtricitabine+Tenofovir alafenamide is used in combination with other medicines to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1) infection in adults and adolescents 12 years of age and who weigh at least 35kg. They work by slowing the spread of HIV in the body.
How is it administered?
It is an orally available prescription drug. Your doctor will decide the dose and duration of Emtricitabine+Tenofovir alafenamide based on the disease condition and other factors such as body weight and age. Always take this medicine as prescribed by your doctor. Take the tablet at the same time, with or without food. Do not break, chew, crush, or break the tablet. Swallow the whole tablet with a glass of water. If you have difficulty swallowing the tablet, you can split it in half after consulting with your doctor.
Side Effects
Common side effects of Emtricitabine+Tenofovir alafenamide are nausea and vomiting. Other serious side effects are hepatitis B reactivation, decreased bone mineral density, increased risk of fractures, and acute renal failure.
Warnings
Emtricitabine+Tenofovir alafenamide is intended to cause severe liver damage. Inform your doctor if you have or suffer from any liver problems, including hepatitis infection. In the long term, this medicine may cause the symptoms of lactic acidosis. Severe renal impairment has occurred in patients consuming this medicine. It is important to monitor all the parameters.
Precautions
Do not take Emtricitabine+Tenofovir alafenamide if you are allergic to Emtricitabine, Tenofovir alafenamide or any of the other ingredients. Get tested for HIV infection regularly while using this medicine. Do not miss any doses of this medicine or stop taking it. Missing doses may increase your risk of getting HIV infection. This medicine does not prevent other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Inform your physician if you have liver problems or suffer from liver disease, including hepatitis, kidney problems, and bone problems. Do not give this medicine to children aged 11 years or under. Inform your healthcare provider about all your medicines, including prescription, over-the-counter, nutritional supplements, and herbal products. Certain medications interact with Emtricitabine+Tenofovir alafenamide and reduce their effectiveness by causing undesirable side effects.
Word of Advice
Your doctor will determine the appropriate dose for you. Do not exceed the prescribed amount. Emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide are used in combination with other antiretroviral medicines to treat HIV infection. Take all other medicines your doctor has prescribed as part of your combination regimen. Do not discontinue this medicine without consulting your doctor first. Interrupting treatment may allow the virus to develop resistance and become more difficult to treat. Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Take this medicine with food to reduce nausea and vomiting. Do not omit doses or alter the dose without consulting your doctor. Always practise safe sex, even if your partner has HIV. Do not share needles or other items that may have contact with blood or body fluids.
References
Descovy 200 mg/25 mg film-coated tablets - Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) - (emc). www.medicines.org.uk. Published April 2022. Accessed May 20, 2023. https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/2108/smpc Emtricitabine and Tenofovir Alafenamide - Patient | NIH. clinicalinfo.hiv.gov. Published February 27, 2023. Accessed May 20, 2023. https://clinicalinfo.hiv.gov/en/drugs/emtricitabine-tenofovir-alafenamide/patient#dr1 KD Tripathi, Antiviral Drugs (Anti-retrovirus), Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, 8th Edition, 2019, 860-872. Gilead Sciences, Inc., US Food & Drug Administration, [Revised on Sep 2017] [Accessed on 14th Aug 2021], https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2017/208215s005lbl.pdf
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Emtricitabine+Tenofovir alafenamide cure HIV?
Emtricitabine+Tenofovir alafenamide is not a cure for HIV. It is an antiretroviral medication that helps control the virus, reduce its replication, and slow down the progression of the disease. It is essential to continue taking the medication as prescribed, even if you feel well, to maintain viral suppression and protect your immune system.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Emtricitabine+Tenofovir alafenamide?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. It is important to speak with your healthcare provider if you frequently miss doses or have difficulty adhering to the medication schedule.
Can women use Emtricitabine+Tenofovir alafenamide?
The use of Emtricitabine+Tenofovir alafenamide to reduce the risk of getting HIV infection in women has not been well established. Consult your doctor before taking this medicine if you are a woman.
Does Emtricitabine+Tenofovir alafenamide interact with grapefruit or grapefruit juice?
No known interactions exist between Emtricitabine+Tenofovir alafenamide and grapefruit or grapefruit juice. However, discussing any dietary concerns or potential interactions with your healthcare provider is always a good idea.
Does Emtricitabine+Tenofovir alafenamide affect liver?
People with liver disease, including chronic hepatitis B or C taking antiretrovirals have a higher risk of severe and potentially fatal liver complications. If you have hepatitis B infection, your doctor will carefully consider the best treatment regimen for you.