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Emtricitabine-Tenofovir DF
Emtricitabine-Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate (DF) is a combination antiretroviral medication used to treat HIV-1 infection and to reduce the risk of contracting HIV in certain high-risk individuals (as part of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP)). Both emtricitabine and tenofovir DF are nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs), which block an enzyme HIV needs to replicate in the body. By reducing the viral load in HIV-positive patients, this combination helps to improve immune function and slow the progression of the disease.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take Emtricitabine-Tenofovir DF with food?
Yes, Emtricitabine-Tenofovir DF can be taken with or without food. Some people find that taking it with food helps to reduce stomach upset.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at your regular time. Do not take two doses at once.
How effective is Emtricitabine-Tenofovir DF for PrEP?
When taken daily as directed, Emtricitabine-Tenofovir DF is over 90% effective at preventing HIV transmission through sexual contact. Consistent adherence is crucial to maintaining its protective effect.
Does Emtricitabine-Tenofovir DF cure HIV?
No, Emtricitabine-Tenofovir DF does not cure HIV. It helps control the virus by reducing viral load and preventing disease progression. HIV treatment is lifelong, and medication must be taken regularly to be effective.
Will I need regular testing while on Emtricitabine-Tenofovir DF for PrEP?
Yes, regular HIV testing (every 3 months) is essential while taking this medication for PrEP to ensure you remain HIV-negative and that the medication continues to be safe and effective.
Comprehensive Drug Guide
How Does Emtricitabine-Tenofovir DF Work?
Both emtricitabine and tenofovir DF are NRTIs that work by inhibiting reverse transcriptase, an enzyme HIV uses to convert its RNA into DNA within human cells. By preventing this conversion, the medications block viral replication, reducing the viral load in the body and helping to preserve immune function. In PrEP, the combination prevents HIV from establishing a permanent infection in those who have been exposed to the virus.
Common Dosages
- One tablet (200 mg emtricitabine / 300 mg tenofovir DF) taken once daily.
Typical Dosing
- For HIV treatment: One tablet is taken orally once daily, in combination with other antiretroviral drugs.
- For PrEP: One tablet is taken orally once daily to reduce the risk of HIV infection, with regular HIV testing required to confirm HIV-negative status before starting and during use.
Typical Dosing
FDA Approved Indications
- Treatment of HIV-1 infection in combination with other antiretrovirals in adults and children aged 12 years and older
- Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to reduce the risk of HIV-1 infection in high-risk individuals (e.g., those with an HIV-positive partner or other risk factors for HIV exposure)
Who Shouldn't Take Emtricitabine-Tenofovir DF?
- Known hypersensitivity to emtricitabine, tenofovir DF, or any component of the formulation
- Severe renal impairment or those requiring dialysis without appropriate monitoring and dose adjustment
Advice From The Pharmacist
- Take Emtricitabine-Tenofovir DF exactly as prescribed, once daily, with or without food.
- It’s important not to miss doses, as this could reduce the medication’s effectiveness and increase the risk of developing drug resistance.
- If using this medication for PrEP, ensure regular HIV testing is done to confirm your HIV-negative status before starting and at least every 3 months during treatment.
- Stay hydrated while taking tenofovir DF to reduce the risk of kidney problems.
Side Effects of Emtricitabine-Tenofovir DF
Common Side Effects
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Fatigue
Uncommon/Severe Side Effects
- Kidney problems, including renal failure
- Bone density loss (osteoporosis)
- Lactic acidosis (rare but serious)
- Liver toxicity
- Severe allergic reactions (rash, difficulty breathing, swelling)
Risks and Warnings of Emtricitabine-Tenofovir DF
- Lactic Acidosis and Hepatomegaly: Both emtricitabine and tenofovir DF can cause lactic acidosis, a potentially fatal buildup of lactic acid in the blood. Patients with liver disease or who are at high risk should be monitored closely.
- Renal Impairment: Tenofovir DF may cause or worsen kidney function, and regular monitoring of kidney function is recommended during treatment.
- Bone Health: Long-term use of tenofovir DF has been associated with decreased bone mineral density. Calcium and vitamin D supplementation may be necessary in some cases.
Interactions with Emtricitabine-Tenofovir DF
Common Drug Interactions
- Other Antiretrovirals: Be cautious with combinations of other antiretroviral medications to avoid overlapping toxicities or reduced efficacy.
- Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Regular use of NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen can increase the risk of kidney damage when combined with tenofovir DF.
- Drugs that affect renal function: Medications that impair kidney function can interact with tenofovir DF, increasing the risk of kidney toxicity.
Alternatives to Emtricitabine-Tenofovir DF
- Descovy (emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide): A newer formulation that has similar efficacy but with a lower risk of kidney and bone side effects compared to tenofovir DF.
- Truvada (emtricitabine/tenofovir DF): Another fixed-dose combination of emtricitabine and tenofovir DF, used for both HIV treatment and PrEP.
- Biktarvy (bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide): A single-pill regimen combining an integrase inhibitor with NRTIs for HIV treatment.
- Atripla (efavirenz/emtricitabine/tenofovir DF): A single-pill regimen used for HIV treatment, though with more neuropsychiatric side effects due to efavirenz.
