Tag: Prep

PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is over 99% effective at preventing HIV when taken consistently, but its effectiveness can be compromised by certain medications, supplements, or health conditions. For those considering or taking this preventative treatment, knowing what to avoid during PrEP is crucial for both its efficacy and overall health.

Clinical trials, such as the DISCOVER trial, have shown that Descovy is associated with improved renal biomarkers compared to Truvada. This critical finding leads many to ask: is Descovy better for kidneys than Truvada? The answer lies in the different versions of the tenofovir drug they contain and individual patient health factors.

According to the DISCOVER trial, switching from Truvada to Descovy for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) led to measurable improvements in markers of kidney function and bone mineral density. This evidence highlights the distinct pharmacological profiles of these two antiretrovirals, which is a primary reason why some individuals and their healthcare providers consider a switch from Truvada to Descovy.

Studies show that an adherence level of at least 80-85% to antiretroviral therapy (ART) may be needed for viral suppression [1.7.3, 1.7.4]. So, what happens if I miss one day of tenofovir, a key medication for HIV treatment and prevention?

The timeline for tenofovir's effectiveness varies significantly depending on its use, with viral load reduction in HIV treatment potentially beginning within four weeks. However, understanding the full onset of action requires recognizing that this antiretroviral medication must first be absorbed and converted to its active form to inhibit viral replication. A range of factors, from the specific condition to individual patient characteristics, influence precisely how long does it take for tenofovir to start working.

Yes, older formulations of the medication tenofovir, specifically tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF), have been definitively linked to an increased risk of kidney problems, from a mild, predictable decline in function to more severe conditions like Fanconi syndrome. The development of a newer prodrug, tenofovir alafenamide (TAF), aimed to address these concerns by significantly reducing the drug's plasma concentration.

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and other health bodies, Truvada is approved for adolescents as young as 12 years old, but understanding what is the age limit for Truvada depends on its specific use, such as PrEP or HIV treatment. Furthermore, age is not the only factor; a minimum body weight of 35 kg (77 lb) is also a critical requirement for both indications.

In studies of patients with chronic hepatitis B, ≤1.5% of those receiving tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) over 288 weeks experienced a confirmed renal event [1.7.1]. Understanding **who should not take tenofovir** is crucial for minimizing risks associated with this effective antiretroviral medication.

Since its FDA approval in 2003, emtricitabine has become a fundamental component of modern HIV therapy, especially when combined with other medications. An individual may be prescribed emtricitabine for two primary reasons: to treat an existing HIV infection or to prevent a potential one in at-risk individuals.

With modern antiviral therapies transforming the management of viral diseases, tenofovir is a mainstay in treating HIV and hepatitis B infections. So, what are tenofovir tablets used for, and how do its different formulations provide effective options for patients? This article explores its applications, formulations, and critical considerations.