Emtricitabine + Tenofovir_alafenamide
Find more information about this combination medication at the webpages for emtricitabine
Chronic Hepatitis B, HIV Infections
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Human Immunodeficiency Virus Nucleoside Analog Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitor
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
emtricitabine + tenofovir_alafenamide
Summary
Emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide are used to treat HIV, which is the virus that causes AIDS. They help control the virus, reduce the viral load, and support a healthy immune system. This combination is also used as part of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to prevent HIV infection in people at high risk.
Emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide work by blocking the reverse transcriptase enzyme, which is needed for HIV to multiply. Emtricitabine mimics DNA building blocks, preventing virus replication. Tenofovir alafenamide is a prodrug, becoming active in the body, effective at lower doses. Together, they reduce HIV in the body, maintaining a healthy immune system.
The usual adult dose for emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide is one tablet taken once daily. Each tablet typically contains 200 mg of emtricitabine and 25 mg of tenofovir alafenamide. This combination is designed to be taken together to maximize effectiveness in reducing the HIV viral load. It's important to follow the healthcare provider's instructions.
Common side effects of emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide include headache, nausea, and fatigue. Emtricitabine may cause harmless skin discoloration. Tenofovir alafenamide is associated with less kidney and bone toxicity compared to its predecessor. However, both can cause serious liver problems, especially in people with hepatitis B, and lactic acidosis, a dangerous buildup of lactic acid.
Emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide can interact with drugs affecting kidney function, like NSAIDs, increasing kidney problem risks. They can also interact with drugs affecting liver enzymes. Monitoring kidney and liver function through regular blood tests is crucial. Avoid using other HIV medications with the same ingredients to prevent overdose. Inform healthcare providers about all medications being taken.
Indications and Purpose
How does combination of emtricitabine and tenofovir_alafenamide work?
Emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide work by blocking the reverse transcriptase enzyme, which is essential for HIV to multiply. Emtricitabine is a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor, which means it mimics the building blocks of DNA, preventing the virus from replicating. Tenofovir alafenamide is a prodrug, which means it becomes active only after being processed in the body, allowing it to be effective at lower doses. Both medicines work together to reduce the amount of HIV in the body, helping to maintain a healthy immune system and prevent the progression of the disease.
How effective is combination of emtricitabine and tenofovir_alafenamide?
Clinical studies have shown that emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide are effective in reducing HIV viral load. Emtricitabine is known for its ability to inhibit the reverse transcriptase enzyme, which is essential for HIV replication. Tenofovir alafenamide is a newer form of tenofovir that is more effective at lower doses, reducing potential side effects. Both medicines work together to block the virus from multiplying, which helps to lower the viral load in the blood. The combination has been proven to be effective in maintaining low viral levels and improving immune function in people with HIV.
Directions for Use
What is the usual dose of combination of emtricitabine and tenofovir_alafenamide?
The usual adult daily dose for the combination of emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide is one tablet taken once a day. Each tablet typically contains 200 mg of emtricitabine and 25 mg of tenofovir alafenamide. This combination is designed to be taken together to maximize effectiveness in reducing the HIV viral load. It's important to take the medicine exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider to ensure the best results. Do not adjust the dose without consulting your healthcare provider.
How does one take combination of emtricitabine and tenofovir_alafenamide?
Emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide can be taken with or without food, making it convenient for daily use. There are no specific food restrictions associated with these medicines. It's important to take the medicine at the same time each day to maintain consistent levels in the body. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Do not double up on doses. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions for the best results.
For how long is combination of emtricitabine and tenofovir_alafenamide taken?
Emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide are typically used as a long-term treatment for HIV. The duration of use depends on individual health needs and the advice of a healthcare provider. These medicines are part of a lifelong treatment plan to manage HIV and maintain a low viral load. Regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is essential to ensure the treatment remains effective and to make any necessary adjustments. It's important to take the medicine consistently as prescribed to achieve the best outcomes.
How long does it take for combination of emtricitabine and tenofovir_alafenamide to work?
Emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide, which are used together to treat HIV, start working in the body soon after you take them. However, it may take a few weeks to see the full effect on your viral load, which is the amount of virus in your blood. Emtricitabine works by blocking the reverse transcriptase enzyme, which is needed for the virus to multiply. Tenofovir alafenamide also targets the same enzyme but is designed to be more effective at lower doses. Both medicines work together to reduce the amount of HIV in the body, helping to keep the immune system strong.
Warnings and Precautions
Are there harms and risks from taking combination of emtricitabine and tenofovir_alafenamide?
Common side effects of emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide include headache, nausea, and fatigue. Emtricitabine may cause skin discoloration, which is usually harmless. Tenofovir alafenamide is associated with less kidney and bone toxicity compared to its predecessor, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate. However, both medicines can cause serious liver problems, especially in people with hepatitis B. It's important to monitor for signs of liver issues, such as yellowing of the skin or eyes. Both medicines can also cause lactic acidosis, which is a buildup of lactic acid in the blood and can be life-threatening.
Can I take combination of emtricitabine and tenofovir_alafenamide with other prescription drugs?
Emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide can interact with other prescription drugs that affect kidney function, such as NSAIDs, which can increase the risk of kidney problems. Medicines that induce or inhibit liver enzymes can alter the levels of tenofovir alafenamide in the body. It's important to monitor kidney and liver function through regular blood tests. Avoid using other HIV medications that contain the same active ingredients to prevent overdose. Always inform your healthcare provider about all prescription drugs you are taking to manage potential interactions effectively.
Can I take combination of emtricitabine and tenofovir_alafenamide if I am pregnant?
Emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide are generally considered safe to use during pregnancy. Studies have shown that they do not significantly increase the risk of birth defects. Emtricitabine has been used in pregnant women with HIV to help prevent the transmission of the virus to the baby. Tenofovir alafenamide is a newer formulation that is also considered safe, with less risk of kidney and bone issues compared to older versions. Both medicines help maintain a low viral load, which is crucial for reducing the risk of mother-to-child transmission of HIV during pregnancy.
Can I take combination of emtricitabine and tenofovir_alafenamide while breastfeeding?
Emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide are generally considered safe during breastfeeding. Emtricitabine passes into breast milk in small amounts, but it is not expected to harm the nursing infant. Tenofovir alafenamide also passes into breast milk, but at lower levels than its predecessor, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate. Both medicines help maintain a low viral load, which is important for reducing the risk of HIV transmission to the baby. However, in some regions, breastfeeding is not recommended for women with HIV to completely eliminate the risk of transmission.
Who should avoid taking combination of emtricitabine and tenofovir_alafenamide?
People using emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide should be aware of the risk of lactic acidosis, which is a serious condition where lactic acid builds up in the blood. Both medicines can also cause liver problems, especially in those with hepatitis B. It's important to monitor liver function regularly. Tenofovir alafenamide is less likely to cause kidney and bone issues compared to older versions, but kidney function should still be monitored. These medicines should not be used with other HIV medications containing the same active ingredients to avoid overdose. Always inform your healthcare provider about any other medicines you are taking.
