Tenofovir

Tenofovir — Uses and Benefits

Tenofovir is used to treat long-term viral infections that affect the liver or immune system.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Treatment of chronic hepatitis B virus infection
• Treatment of HIV-1 infection, usually combined with other antiretroviral medicines
• Sometimes used for pre-exposure prevention of HIV in high-risk individuals, as advised by a doctor

HOW IT WORKS

• Tenofovir belongs to a class of antivirals called nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitors
• It blocks an enzyme the virus needs to multiply, lowering the viral load in blood
• Lowering viral load helps protect the liver (in hepatitis B) or the immune system (in HIV)

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It does not cure hepatitis B or HIV infection completely
• It is not effective against other viral infections such as common cold or flu
• It should not be used as a standalone treatment for HIV without other prescribed antiretrovirals
• It is not a substitute for hepatitis B vaccination or safe sex practices

How to Use Tenofovir

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once daily
• Can be taken with or without food, unless your doctor advises otherwise
• Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not crush or chew unless instructed
• Take it at the same time every day to help you remember
• Do not stop the medicine suddenly without consulting your doctor, especially if you have hepatitis B, as stopping suddenly can worsen liver disease
• Continue taking it for as long as your doctor recommends, even if you feel well

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take the missed dose as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue as usual
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct heat, light, and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack

Tenofovir — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea
• Diarrhoea
• Headache
• Tiredness or weakness
• Dizziness

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Loss of appetite
• Abdominal pain
• Skin rash
• Trouble sleeping
• Mild bone or joint pain

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Signs of kidney problems such as reduced urination, swelling of legs, or unusual tiredness
• Severe muscle pain or weakness (possible sign of lactic acidosis)
• Yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe stomach pain (liver problems)
• Difficulty breathing, swelling of face or throat (allergic reaction)
• Unusual bone pain or fractures with long-term use

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Tenofovir — Safety Information and Precautions

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to tenofovir or any of its ingredients
• Have severe kidney disease, unless specifically advised by your doctor

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have any existing kidney problems
• Have osteoporosis or a history of bone fractures
• Have liver disease, including hepatitis C co-infection
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Are taking other medicines that affect the kidneys

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other nephrotoxic drugs such as certain antibiotics or NSAIDs
• Didanosine and other antiretroviral medicines
• Drugs affecting kidney elimination, such as acyclovir or valganciclovir
• Always share your complete medicine list with your doctor before starting tenofovir

This medicine is available only with a doctor's prescription in India. Do not self-medicate or share this medicine with others.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I stop taking tenofovir once I feel better?

No, stopping suddenly, especially in hepatitis B, can cause the disease to flare up; always consult your doctor before stopping.

Will tenofovir cure my HIV or hepatitis B completely?

No, it controls the virus and reduces damage but does not completely eliminate the infection.

Does tenofovir affect kidney function?

• It can affect kidney function in some people, so your doctor may monitor your kidney tests periodically during treatment.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.