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Health

Truvada

, medical expert
Last reviewed: 07.06.2024
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"Truvada (tenofovir disoproxil fumarate and emtricitabine) is a combination antiviral drug used to treat and prevent HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) infection. Truvada has been approved and licensed for use in the United States and other countries.

The main components of Truvada are:

  1. Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate: This is an antiviral drug that suppresses the reproduction of HIV in the body. It belongs to a class of drugs called nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs).
  2. Emtricitabine: This is also an antiviral drug that works in combination with tenofovir disoproxil fumarate to enhance the effectiveness of HIV treatment. Emtricitabine also belongs to the NRTI class.

Truvada's main purpose:

  1. Treatment of HIV infection: "Truvada is used in combination with other antiviral drugs to treat HIV infection in adults and children, including youth over 12 years of age.
  2. Prevention of HIV PSM (preparative-sexual route): "Truvada can be used by people at high risk for HIV to prevent transmission of the virus. This process, known as "chemical prophylaxis" or "PrEP" (prevention against HIV), involves taking the drug every day to reduce the chance of infection when the risk is high.

"Truvada should be prescribed and monitored by a doctor, and its use should be combined with other precautions such as condom use and regular HIV testing. It is important to discuss the possible side effects and benefits of Truvada in your particular situation with your health care professional.

Indications Truvada

"Truvada" (tenofovir disoproxil fumarate and emtricitabine) is a combination drug that is used in the treatment and prevention of HIV infection. Here are the main indications for the use of Truvada:

  1. Treatment of HIV infection: "Truvada is used in combination with other antiviral drugs to treat HIV infection in adults and children, including youth over 12 years of age and adults who test positive for HIV.
  2. HIV PSM (preparative-sexual route) prophylaxis: Truvada may also be prescribed to people at high risk of HIV infection to prevent transmission of the virus. This process, known as "chemical prophylaxis" or "PrEP" (prevention against HIV), involves taking the drug daily for people who are in high-risk situations, such as having sex with an HIV-positive partner or injecting drug use.
  3. Prevention of HIV PSM in injecting drug abusers: For injecting drug abusers at high risk of HIV infection, Truvada can be used to prevent transmission.

It is important to note that Truvada should be prescribed and monitored by a doctor and its use should be combined with other precautions such as condom use, hygiene and regular HIV testing. The possible side effects and benefits of Truvada should be discussed with a medical professional to make an informed decision about its use in a particular situation.

Release form

"Truvada" (tenofovir disoproxil fumarate and emtricitabine) is available as tablets for oral (by mouth) administration. Truvada tablets are usually orange in color and oval in shape. The shape and color of the tablets may vary slightly depending on the manufacturer and region, but they are basically solid oral tablets.

It is important to remember that Truvada is only available with a prescription from a physician, and its use must strictly follow the doctor's instructions and the medication's directions for use.

Pharmacodynamics

"Truvad" (Truvada) is a combination medicine used to treat and prevent HIV infection (human immunodeficiency virus). It contains two active ingredients: tenofovir disoproxil fumarate and emtricitabine.

Here's how these components work in the body:

  1. Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate: This component is a nucleotide analog and is incorporated into the viral DNA strand, preventing its further growth. Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate inhibits the work of HIV virus transcriptase revertase, which leads to a decrease in the number of viral particles in the body.
  2. Emtricitabine: Emtricitabine is a nucleoside analog that also inhibits the HIV virus transcriptase revertase. It helps prevent the reproduction of viral DNA and reduce viral load.

The combination of tenofovir and emtricitabine in Truvada provides better control of the HIV virus and may reduce the risk of transmission to others. It can also be used as a prophylactic to prevent HIV infection in people at high risk of infection, this is called Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP).

The pharmacodynamics of Truvada is to suppress viral replication and reduce the viral load in the blood, which helps to maintain a higher level of immunity and reduces the risk of progression of HIV infection. It does not provide a complete cure for HIV, but it can slow the progression of the disease and reduce the likelihood of transmitting the virus to others.

Pharmacokinetics

Truvada pharmacokinetics describes how a drug interacts with the body, including its absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion. Here are the main aspects of Truvada pharmacokinetics:

  1. Absorption: After oral administration of Truvada, the tablets disintegrate rapidly in the body, and the active components (tenofovir and emtricitabine) are absorbed through the wall of the gastrointestinal tract.
  2. Distribution: Tenofovir and emtricitabine are distributed in body tissues. They can penetrate into cells where they exert their antiviral action by inhibiting the multiplication of HIV.
  3. Metabolism: Tenofovir and emtricitabine are metabolized in the liver and other tissues, being converted into biologically inactive metabolites.
  4. Excretion: Metabolites and part of the unchanged drug are excreted from the body through the kidneys with urine. Another part of the drug is excreted through the gastrointestinal tract.
  5. Half-life: The half-life of tenofovir in the body is approximately 17 hours and the half-life of emtricitabine is approximately 10 hours.

Dosing and administration

HIV prophylaxis (PrEP) is a strategy of using antiviral drugs in people at increased risk of HIV infection to prevent infection with the virus. There are several PrEP regimens, and the choice of a particular regimen may depend on individual circumstances and your doctor's recommendations. The two main PrEP regimens are summarized below:

  1. Daily regimen:
    • In this regimen, PrEP medications are taken daily without skipping.
    • This regimen is appropriate for people who have a consistently high risk of HIV infection.
    • The advantage of this regimen is that it provides continuous protection against HIV, but requires a disciplined regimen every day.
  2. Interval regimen (before and after sexual intercourse):
    • In this regimen, PrEP drugs are taken only before and after sexual intercourse.
    • This regimen is appropriate for people whose risk of HIV infection is not constant and is limited to certain events or periods.
    • In this regimen, the drugs are taken for 2 days before intended exposure, then continued for 2 days after exposure.
  3. Your doctor may prescribe Truvada in combination with other antiviral medicines to treat HIV infection.
    • Follow the instructions in theand take the medication as recommended by your doctor.

It is important to note that PrEP should be prescribed and monitored by a medical professional. For effective protection against HIV, it is important to follow your doctor's recommendations and instructions for taking PrEP. Regular testing for HIV and other infections and condom use in combination with PrEP can increase protection.

An interval PrEP (HIV prevention) regimen using Truvada (tenofovir disoproxil fumarate and emtricitabine) involves taking two Truvada tablets at specific times: before and after sexual intercourse or events when there is an increased risk of HIV infection. Here's how to take Truvada on an interval regimen:

  1. Before contact:

    • Take one Truvada tablet (usually 24-48 hours before intended exposure).
    • This will help build a higher level of defense against HIV in the body.
  2. After contact:

    • Continue taking Truvada one more tablet every day for 2 days after exposure.
    • This will prolong the effect of the drug and reduce the risk of infection.

Important points for the PrEP interval scheme:

  • Truvada should be prescribed and monitored by a medical professional. Do not start or stop taking the drug without consulting your doctor.
  • Plan ahead and keep track of your medication calendar so you don't miss a dose.
  • Remember that the PrEP interval regimen is intended for events when you expect a high-risk exposure. If your risk of HIV infection is consistently high, your doctor may recommend taking the drug daily.

It is important to emphasize that the use of PrEP and the choice of regimen depends on your individual situation and your doctor's advice. Follow your doctor's instructions and have regular tests for HIV and other infections for optimal protection.

Use Truvada during pregnancy

The use of Truvada (Truvada) during pregnancy should only be considered after careful discussion with your doctor and assessment of the potential risks and benefits for the mother and child. This is because the safety of the drug during pregnancy requires special attention.

It is important to consider the following points:

  1. Prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV: If a woman is pregnant and HIV-positive, Truvad can be considered as part of combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) designed to reduce the risk of mother-to-child transmission of HIV. The goal of treatment is to achieve undetectable levels of viral load in the mother by the time of delivery.
  2. Risks and side effects: It is important to take into account that Truvad may cause some side effects and their effects on pregnancy and fetal development may not be sufficiently studied. Therefore, the decision to prescribe the drug should be made by a doctor based on an assessment of benefits and risks.
  3. Tolerability and safety for the child: The drug "Truvad" may penetrate the placenta and affect the development of the fetus. Therefore, it is important that its use should be strictly controlled and coordinated with a doctor.
  4. Other methods of preventing HIV transmission: In some cases, other methods of preventing mother-to-child transmission of HIV may be considered, including the use of other medications, as well as certain measures during childbirth and breastfeeding.

Contraindications

Before you start taking Truvada, it is important to consult your doctor and make sure that you have no contraindications for its use. Here are some common contraindications for Truvada:

  1. Known allergic reaction to components of the drug: If you have previously experienced an allergic reaction to tenofovir, emtricitabine, or other components of Truvada, this may be a contraindication.
  2. Contraindications related to kidney function: Truvada may have a negative effect on the kidneys. If you have problems with kidney function or are taking other medicines that may affect the kidneys, your doctor should assess whether Truvada is safe for you.
  3. Contraindications related to liver function: If you have liver disease, including cirrhosis, or are taking other medications that may affect the liver, this may also require careful use of Truvada.
  4. Pregnancy and lactation: The use of Truvada during pregnancy and lactation should be evaluated by a physician taking into account the benefits and risks to the mother and child.
  5. Contraindications associated with other medications: Your doctor should consider all medications you are taking and evaluate possible interactions with Truvada.
  6. Children: The use of Truvada in children may depend on the age and weight of the child. For children under 12 years of age, other medicines may be used.

Side effects Truvada

"Truvada (Truvada), like any medicine, can cause side effects. Some of the possible side effects of Truvada are listed below:

  1. Elevated levels of lactic acid in the blood (hyperlactatemia): This is a rare but serious complication that can manifest itself with symptoms such as weakness, fatigue, muscle pain, insomnia, nausea, and vomiting. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.
  2. Worsening of liver disease: In some patients who already have liver disease, Truvad may cause a worsening of the condition. It is important to have regular medical check-ups to monitor the liver condition during treatment.
  3. Increased risk of bone problems: Some patients taking Truvad may have an increased risk of developing bone problems such as osteoporosis and osteopenia.
  4. Gastrointestinal side effects: This may include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and other gastrointestinal symptoms.
  5. Allergic Reactions: Rarely, Truvad may cause allergic reactions such as skin rash, itching, swelling of the face and throat, difficulty breathing, and even anaphylaxis.
  6. Increased risk of infections: Prolonged use of Truvada may increase the risk of developing infections because it can suppress the immune system.
  7. Decreased calcium and phosphorus levels in the blood: This can affect bone and tooth health.
  8. Decreased kidney function: Truvad may cause decreased kidney function in some patients.
  9. Other side effects: There may be other side effects that are not mentioned above. It is important to report any unpleasant symptoms or changes in health while taking this medicine to your doctor.

It is important to remember that not all patients taking Truvad will necessarily experience side effects, and most of them may be manageable or temporary.

Overdose

An overdose of Truvada can be dangerous and requires medical attention. If you accidentally take more of the drug than recommended or suspect an overdose, you should see your doctor or go to the nearest medical center right away. Below are some possible symptoms of a Truvada overdose and steps that can be taken:

Symptoms of a Truvada overdose may include:

  • Impaired renal function and the appearance of symptoms of renal failure.
  • Increased side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, fatigue, etc.

Measures to treat an overdose may include:

  1. Getting medical care: See a doctor or call an ambulance as soon as possible. You may need to be hospitalized to evaluate your condition and get the care you need.
  2. Symptomatic treatment: Treatment of an overdose will be aimed at relieving symptoms and maintaining organ function. This may include medications to control nausea, vomiting, and other symptoms.
  3. Monitoring of kidney function: Because Truvada may affect the kidneys, you may need regular kidney function tests and special treatment if your kidney function is impaired.
  4. Dosage Reversal: Depending on the severity of the overdose, your doctor may decide to temporarily or permanently stop taking Truvada.

It is important to note that preventing an overdose of Truvada is important. Follow your doctor's recommendations regarding the dosage and administration of the drug, and do not change the dosage without his or her consent. If you have any questions or concerns about the use of Truvada, always discuss them with a medical professional.

Interactions with other drugs

Truvada, which contains tenofovir disoproxil fumarate and emtricitabine, may interact with other medicines. It is important to consider these interactions to avoid adverse effects. Below are some of the most significant interactions of Truvada with other drugs:

  1. Medicines containing tenofovir: Using other medicines containing tenofovir (such as Vireira or Atripla) in combination with Truvad may increase the risk of tenofovir-related side effects, such as increased levels of lactic acid in the blood and kidney problems. These combinations should only be used under strict medical supervision.
  2. Hepatitis B medicines: Medicines such as Tenofovir and Entecavir are used to treat hepatitis B. Using these medicines together with Truvad may increase the risk of liver and kidney side effects. Their combined use with Truvad may increase the risk of liver and kidney side effects. Such combinations should also be monitored by a doctor.
  3. Drugs affecting the kidneys: Drug s or medicines that have a negative effect on kidney function may increase the kidney-related side effects of Truvada. Your doctor may recommend regular monitoring of kidney function.
  4. Drugs that depress the immune system: Truvad may increase the risk of infections, so using it in combination with drugs that depress the immune system (such as glucocorticosteroids or cancer drugs) may increase this effect.
  5. Antiretroviral drugs: Use of Truvada in combination with other antiretroviral drugs (e.g. Protease inhibitors or integrase inhibitors) may require regular monitoring and dosage adjustment.
  6. Drugs affecting calcium and phosphate: Truvada may increase the risk of developing disorders of calcium and phosphorus metabolism in the body. Therefore, it is important to avoid coadministration with medicines that may increase this effect.
  7. Antacids and agents containing aluminum or magnesium: Their use soon after "Truvada" may reduce its absorption. It is recommended to observe an interval between taking Truvada and antacids.

Storage conditions

The drug "Truvad" (Truvada) should be stored according to the instructions on the package and the manufacturer's instructions. Here are general recommendations for storage conditions of "Truvada":

  1. Temperature: Store Truvada at a controlled temperature of 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). This is room temperature.
  2. Light: The drug should be stored in its original packaging to protect it from directsunlight.
  3. Humidity: Avoid high humidity. The drug should be stored in a dry place.
  4. Packaging: After opening the package, Truvada should be used for a certain time, as indicated in the instructions. Usually, after opening the pill bottle, the medicine should be used for several months.
  5. Children and pets: Keep Truvada out of the reach of children and pets to avoid accidental use.
  6. Disposal: After the expiration date or if you have unused tablets left over, dispose of the medication properly in accordance with local medical waste regulations or at your pharmacy.

It is important to follow the instructions on the package and the information provided by your doctor or pharmacist to ensure that Truvada is stored correctly and remains effective. Never use the drug if it is past its expiration date. If you have any questions about storing the drug, contact your doctor or pharmacist for more information and advice.

Special instructions

The drug Truvada is intended for the treatment and prevention of HIV infection. When using it, some special instructions and recommendations should be taken into account:

  1. Use only with a doctor's prescription: Truvada is available only with a doctor's prescription. Do not start or stop taking the drug without consulting your doctor.
  2. Regular medical check-ups: You will need regular medical check-ups, including HIV and kidney function tests, to monitor your condition and the effectiveness of your treatment.
  3. Adherence: It is important to take Truvada regularly as recommended by your doctor. Skipping doses may reduce the drug's effectiveness and increase the risk of HIV infection.
  4. Notifying your doctor of side effects: If you experience any side effects or unpleasant symptoms while taking Truvada, tell your doctor. Some side effects require the attention of a medical professional.
  5. Prevention of other infections: "Truvada does not protect against other infections such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, and hepatitis. Use additional methods of protection, such as condoms, to prevent transmission of other infections.
  6. Gentle use in pregnancy and breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding, discuss the use of Truvada with your doctor. Prescribing the drug in this case should be evaluated by your doctor, taking into account the risks and benefits to the mother and baby.
  7. Individual effectiveness: The effectiveness of Truvada may vary from person to person. In some cases, it may not be sufficient to provide complete protection against HIV, so it is important to follow other HIV prevention methods, such as condom use.
  8. Adherence to a healthy lifestyle: In addition to taking Truvada, it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including diet, physical activity, and avoiding smoking and drug use.

Always discuss all questions and concerns about Truvada with your doctor. He or she will be able to provide you with the best advice and individualized support for effective HIV treatment and prevention.

Shelf life

The expiration date of Truvada (tenofovir disoproxil fumarate and emtricitabine) may vary depending on the manufacturer and the region where it was purchased. Usually the shelf life of Truvada is 2-3 years, but the exact information about the expiration date should be checked on the package or blister of the drug, where the expiration date is indicated.

It is important to observe the expiration date of the medicine and not to use it after the expiration date. A medicine that has expired may lose its effectiveness and become unusable.

If you have Truvada and are in doubt about its expiration date or storage, it is better to consult your pharmacist or your doctor. They can give you more information and recommendations on how to continue using the medicine.

Attention!

To simplify the perception of information, this instruction for use of the drug " Truvada" translated and presented in a special form on the basis of the official instructions for medical use of the drug. Before use read the annotation that came directly to medicines.

Description provided for informational purposes and is not a guide to self-healing. The need for this drug, the purpose of the treatment regimen, methods and dose of the drug is determined solely by the attending physician. Self-medication is dangerous for your health.

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