Description
Generic Name: emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate
Drug Class: nucleoside analog HIV-1 reverse transcriptase inhibitors
Truvada Side Effects
Mild & Common Side Effects:
-Diarrhea
-Dizziness
-Headache
-Back pain
-Trouble sleeping
-Skin discoloration on the palms or soles
Severe Side Effects:
-Severe tiredness
-Unexplained weight loss
-Persistent muscle aches
-Joint pain
-Persistent headache
-Vision changes
-Numbness/tingling
-Fever
-Chills
-Swollen lymph nodes
-Non-healing skin sores
-Changes in urine output
-Hyperthyroidism
-Guillain-Barre syndrome
-Depression
-Anxiety
Truvada Warnings
Avoid taking this oral prescription if you have a known allergy to emtricitabine, tenofovir, or any of the ingredients each tablet may have. At all times, be mindful of signs of severe allergies, such as severe dizziness, trouble breathing, itching, hives, rashes, and swelling of the mouth, face, and neck. If this happens, discontinue medication at once and seek emergency management.
Taking this tablet is contraindicated for people with a history of liver cirrhosis, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, pancreatitis, bone problems, kidney disease, and alcohol abuse. In addition, you should discuss all the over-the-counter medications, prescription drugs, food supplements, and herbal products you use because of drug interactions.
For women who are conceiving, this prescription drug should be taken only if extremely necessary. Otherwise, it is best to avoid the medication as it is unknown if it can harm unborn babies.
This type of medication can pass into breast milk. However, women with HIV are advised not to breastfeed.
What is Truvada used for?
Truvada is an oral prescription drug that is being prescribed together with other antiretroviral drugs for patients with HIV-1 infection. It is also being given as pre-exposure prophylaxis to reduce the risk of sexually acquired HIV-1 among those at high risk.
Dosage Forms
This is available in Truvada 200/300mg tablets.
Mechanism of Action
This is a combination of two active ingredients, Emtricitabine is a cytidine analog that works by inhibiting HIV reverse transcriptase. This prevents the transcription of RNA to DNA. Another active ingredient is tenofovir, which is also an antiretroviral. It acts by blocking reverse transcriptase, an enzyme required for viral production among people infected with HIV.
How to Use Truvada
Prior to taking this oral medication, you must read the medication prescription leaflet provided by the pharmacist. Do not administer any drug without fully understanding all the important information regarding the product. You may ask your physician if you have queries or need additional details.
This is commonly prescribed once daily or depending on the physician’s recommendation. This prescription tablet must be taken orally, and you may administer it with/without a meal. However, if you are also prescribed other drugs like didanosine, it is best to take them on an empty stomach.
Create a dosing schedule to avoid missing your doses. If you forget your dose for the day, take it right away. Avoid taking double doses. Do not decrease or increase your Truvada dosage, and do not take the tablet more frequently. In addition, do not discontinue taking this medication abruptly, for doing so can lead to worsening conditions.
How much does Truvada cost in Canada?
You may check the list of Truvada prices from the information above. PharmaPassport.com offers the best rates on any prescription or non-prescription drugs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Truvada used for?
Truvada (generic name: emtricitabine & tenofovir disoproxil fumarate) is being used for HIV-1 infected patients. This can also be used as a prophylactic drug.
How fast does Truvada work?
This antiretroviral agent can work after five to seven days of regularly taking this medication. However, this drug kicks in right after it has been administered.
What is the best time to take Truvada?
You may take this oral tablet any time of the day. Your healthcare provider may also advise the best time to take this drug based on your other medications.
Does Truvada cause hair loss?
This prescription drug should not cause hair loss. If you experience this undesirable effect, it may be caused by other medications or any underlying conditions.
Does Truvada make you sleepy?
This oral medication may not cause sleepiness but may cause tiredness. If you have any problems with sleep, you should talk to your healthcare provider.
Can you buy Truvada over the counter?
Patients are required to present a prescription when buying this medication. This should not be sold over the counter.