Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate

Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate — Uses and Benefits

This medicine is used in the treatment of chronic viral infections, mainly Hepatitis B and HIV.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Treatment of chronic Hepatitis B virus infection in adults
• Treatment of HIV-1 infection, usually combined with other antiretroviral medicines
• Sometimes used as part of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in high-risk individuals, as advised by a doctor

HOW IT WORKS

• It belongs to a class of drugs called nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitors
• It blocks an enzyme the virus needs to copy its genetic material
• This reduces the amount of virus in the blood and helps protect the immune system

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It does not cure Hepatitis B or HIV infection completely
• It is not effective against other types of hepatitis such as Hepatitis A or C
• It should not be used to treat common viral infections like cold or flu
• It is not a substitute for other prevention methods like condoms in reducing HIV transmission

How to Use Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once a day
• Can be taken with or without food, but taking it the same time every day helps maintain steady levels in the body
• Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not crush or chew unless advised
• Do not stop the medicine suddenly without consulting your doctor, even if you feel better
• Continue regular blood tests as advised to monitor kidney function and viral levels

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

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

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep the tablets in their original packaging until use
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack

Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

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

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Loss of appetite
• Abdominal pain
• Skin rash
• Sleep disturbances
• 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 weakness
• Severe muscle pain or weakness
• Yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine (signs of liver problems)
• Unusual tiredness with rapid breathing (signs of lactic acidosis)
• Bone pain or fractures due to long-term bone density loss
• Signs of allergic reaction such as swelling of face, lips, throat, or difficulty breathing

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

Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate — Safety Information and Precautions

This medicine is available only with a valid doctor's prescription in India.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to tenofovir disoproxil fumarate or any other ingredient in the tablet
• Have been advised against it due to severe kidney disease without proper dose adjustment

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have any kidney disease or history of kidney problems
• Have liver disease, including Hepatitis C co-infection
• Have bone disease, osteoporosis, or history of fractures
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Are already taking other antiviral or HIV medicines

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other nephrotoxic drugs such as certain antibiotics or NSAIDs
• Didanosine and certain other antiretroviral drugs
• Drugs affecting kidney function should be used cautiously
• Always inform your doctor about all medicines, supplements, and herbal products you are taking

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I stop this medicine once I feel better?

No, stopping suddenly can cause the virus to become active again or worsen liver disease; always consult your doctor first.

Will this medicine cure HIV or Hepatitis B completely?

No, it helps control the virus and reduce complications but does not completely cure the infection.

Can I take this medicine during pregnancy?

• It should only be used during pregnancy if your doctor considers it necessary and safe for your specific condition.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.