Tenofovir is an antiviral medication used primarily to treat HIV/AIDS and chronic hepatitis B. It belongs to a class of drugs known as nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs), which work by blocking the action of reverse transcriptase, an enzyme crucial for viral replication.
Key Uses:
- HIV/AIDS: Tenofovir is often used in combination with other antiretroviral drugs as part of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). It helps reduce the viral load in the body and improves immune function.
- Hepatitis B: It is also effective in managing chronic hepatitis B by suppressing the replication of the hepatitis B virus.
Forms:
- Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate (TDF): Commonly used in both HIV and hepatitis B treatment.
- Tenofovir Alafenamide (TAF): A newer formulation that is more potent at lower doses, reducing the risk of side effects.
Common Side Effects:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Kidney issues (more common with TDF)
- Bone density loss (more common with TDF)
Monitoring:
- Regular monitoring of kidney function and bone density is recommended, especially for long-term users of TDF.
- Liver function tests are important for those using it for hepatitis B.
Important Considerations:
- Pregnancy: Tenofovir is generally considered safe during pregnancy for preventing mother-to-child transmission of HIV.
- Resistance: As with other antiretrovirals, adherence to the prescribed regimen is crucial to prevent the development of drug-resistant strains of the virus.
Brand Names:
- Viread (TDF)
- Descovy (TAF, in combination with emtricitabine)
- Truvada (TDF, in combination with emtricitabine)
Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized medical advice and before starting or changing any medication.