Indications
- Truvada is indicated as part of a comprehensive strategy to prevent sexually acquired HIV-1 infection in adults at high risk.
- It is also indicated for use in combination with safer sex practices, such as consistent condom use and regular HIV testing, to reduce the risk of sexually acquired HIV-1 infection in uninfected adults.
- Truvada is approved for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to reduce the risk of sexually acquired HIV-1 infection in individuals who are HIV-negative and at high risk for HIV infection.
Dosage and administration
- The recommended dosage of Truvada for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is one tablet (containing 200 mg of emtricitabine and 300 mg of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate) taken orally once daily.
- Truvada should be taken consistently every day, with or without food, to maximize its effectiveness in preventing HIV infection.
- Individuals starting Truvada for PrEP should be tested for HIV-1 infection to ensure they are HIV-negative before initiating treatment.
- Routine monitoring for HIV infection, kidney function, and bone density is recommended for individuals taking Truvada for PrEP.
- Truvada should be discontinued if an individual becomes HIV-positive during treatment or experiences significant renal impairment.
- Dosage adjustments are not required based on age, gender, or race. However, dose adjustments may be necessary for individuals with impaired renal function.
Side effects
- Common side effects of Truvada may include nausea, diarrhea, or headache.
- Some individuals may experience abdominal pain, dizziness, or fatigue while taking Truvada.
- Truvada can cause changes in kidney function, leading to increased creatinine levels in the blood.
- It may also lead to bone mineral density loss or changes in liver function tests in some patients.
- Rarely, severe side effects such as lactic acidosis (buildup of lactic acid in the blood) or liver toxicity may occur with the use of Truvada.
- Contact your healthcare provider if you experience any persistent or severe side effects while taking Truvada.
Precautions
- Individuals taking Truvada for PrEP should be tested for HIV-1 infection to ensure they are HIV-negative before initiating treatment.
- Routine monitoring for HIV infection, kidney function, and bone density is recommended for individuals taking Truvada for PrEP.
- Truvada should be discontinued if an individual becomes HIV-positive during treatment or experiences significant renal impairment.
- Consult your healthcare provider before starting Truvada if you have a history of kidney problems or bone disorders.
- Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking before starting Truvada to avoid potential drug interactions.
- If you experience symptoms of liver problems such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or persistent nausea, contact your healthcare provider promptly.
- Pregnant individuals should consult with their healthcare provider before starting Truvada, as the safety of Truvada during pregnancy has not been established.
- Breastfeeding individuals should discuss the potential risks and benefits of Truvada with their healthcare provider before initiating or continuing treatment.
- Use Truvada with caution in individuals with a history of depression or other mental health disorders, as it may exacerbate these conditions.