Emtricitabine/tenofovir disoproxil

Emtricitabine/tenofovir disoproxil is a combination of two antiretroviral drugs, emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil, used in the treatment and prevention of HIV/AIDS. This combination therapy is marketed under the brand names Truvada among others.

Pharmacology

Emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil are both nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs). They work by inhibiting the action of reverse transcriptase, an enzyme that HIV uses to replicate its genetic material. By blocking this enzyme, emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil prevent HIV from multiplying and can reduce the amount of virus in the body.

Clinical Use

Emtricitabine/tenofovir disoproxil is used as part of combination therapy for the treatment of HIV infection. It can be used in adults and children who weigh at least 17 kilograms. This medication is also used for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to reduce the risk of contracting HIV in people at high risk.

Side Effects

Common side effects of emtricitabine/tenofovir disoproxil include nausea, diarrhea, headache, and tiredness. Serious side effects may include kidney problems, lactic acidosis, or liver problems.

Resistance

Resistance to emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil can develop with prolonged use, particularly if the medication is taken inconsistently. Resistance testing is recommended before starting treatment to ensure that emtricitabine/tenofovir disoproxil will be effective.

See Also

• Antiretroviral therapy
• HIV/AIDS
• Nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors
• Emtricitabine
• Tenofovir disoproxil