Uses

Truvada (Emtracitabine, Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate) is a highly effective medication used to treat HIV. It is typically taken in combination with other HIV medications if it is being used for confirmed HIV treatment. Both active ingredients in this medicine work by stopping the enzyme called reverse transcriptase within the virus, rendering the virus unable to reproduce.

How to Use

Take this medication by mouth with water, it can be taken with or without food.

If stomach upset occurs, you can take it with food or milk to decrease this effect.

Take it exactly as directed, do not take more than directed. It is very important not to miss doses of this medication in order to decrease the change of HIV resistance.

Do not crush, chew, or cut the tablets, swallow the tablets whole.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is already almost time for your next dose, take only that next dose. Do not double up on any dose.

Important Information

HIV can be spread through blood or sexual contact. Discuss ways to minimize the risk of transmission to others with your doctor.

It is important to continue taking this medication exactly as prescribed. Do not stop taking it because you are feeling better unless directed by a doctor.

Be sure to have regular check ups with your doctor while on this medication. Discuss any side effects or symptoms with your doctor. It is important to have blood tests while taking this medicine.

If you have hepatitis B, discuss this with your doctor. Stopping this medication may lead to a chance of hepatitis B exacerbation.

Be sure that your prescribing doctor is aware if you have any of the the following conditions before taking this medication

Bone conditions, kidney disease, liver disease, history of allergic reactions, pregnancy, breastfeeding, trying to become pregnant.

Side effects that should be immediately reported to your healthcare provider

Allergic reactions(hives, itching, rashes, swelling of the face or mouth), trouble breathing, darkened urine, flu like symptoms, light colored stools, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, stomach upset, stomach pain, right upper belly pain, changes in the passing or urine, excessive fatigue, yellowing of the eyes or skin.

Other Side Effects

Diarrhea, dizziness, headache, skin discoloration of the hands or feet, weight gain of the back, waist, thinning of the arms, legs or face.

Adult Dose

For HIV treatment this medication is used in combination with other medications.

HIV Infections and HIV Infection Prophylaxis

1 tablet(emtricabine 200mg/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate 300mg) by mouth once daily.

Sources

1. Truvada (emtricitabine; tenofovir) [package insert]. Foster City, CA: Gilead Sciences; 2016.

3. Truvada ® oral tablets, emtricitabine tenofovir disoproxil fumarate oral tablets[package insert]. Foster City, CA: Gilead Sciences, Inc, (per FDA); 2013.

4. Truvada (emtricitabine/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate) [package insert]. Foster City, CA: Gilead Sciences; 2016.