Medication Overview
Truvada is a prescription medication used in combination with other antiretroviral drugs to treat HIV-1 infection. It is also approved for use in pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), which is a preventive measure for individuals at risk of HIV infection. Truvada contains two medications, emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, which work as nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) to block HIV replication in the body.
Who Should Consider Truvada?
Truvada is appropriate for:
- Adults and adolescents with HIV-1 infection who need combination therapy to manage the virus.
- Individuals at high risk of HIV infection who are seeking pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP).
- Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for individuals exposed to HIV, used in combination with other antiretrovirals.
How is Truvada Administered?
Truvada is available in tablet form, taken once daily with or without food. When used as PrEP, it is recommended to be taken consistently to maximize its effectiveness in preventing HIV infection. For individuals with HIV, Truvada is typically used as part of a combination antiretroviral regimen.
Important Information for Truvada Users
- How to Use: Take Truvada exactly as prescribed, following your healthcare provider’s instructions. For PrEP, ensure to take it consistently as prescribed.
- Storage: Store Truvada at room temperature, in its original container, away from moisture and heat.
- Side Effects: Common side effects include headache, nausea, diarrhea, dizziness, and fatigue. Notify your healthcare provider if you experience any severe side effects, such as kidney problems or lactic acidosis.
- Monitoring: Regular check-ups are essential to monitor kidney function, liver function, and viral suppression. If using Truvada for PrEP, regular HIV testing and monitoring are recommended.
Medication Warnings
- Hepatitis B Reactivation: If you have both HIV and hepatitis B, stopping Truvada may cause severe worsening of hepatitis B. Your healthcare provider will monitor liver function and adjust treatment as needed.
- Lactic Acidosis and Severe Liver Problems: In rare cases, Truvada can cause lactic acidosis (buildup of lactic acid in the blood) or severe liver problems. Symptoms may include nausea, stomach pain, muscle pain, or jaundice.
- Kidney Function: Truvada may cause kidney problems, particularly in individuals with pre-existing kidney issues. Your healthcare provider will monitor your kidney function throughout treatment.
- Bone Health: Long-term use of Truvada may cause a reduction in bone mineral density, which can increase the risk of fractures. Discuss calcium and vitamin D supplementation with your healthcare provider if necessary.
Who Should and Shouldn’t Take Truvada?
Suitable Candidates:
- Adults and adolescents with HIV-1 infection requiring combination therapy.
- Individuals at high risk for HIV infection, using Truvada for PrEP.
- Individuals needing PEP after potential HIV exposure, used with other antiretroviral drugs.
Unsuitable Candidates:
- Individuals with a history of severe kidney disease, unless carefully monitored by a healthcare provider.
- Patients with untreated hepatitis B, without consulting a healthcare provider about the best treatment approach.
- Those allergic to emtricitabine or tenofovir or any of the components in Truvada.
For more detailed information and personalized advice, consult your healthcare provider.
