Approximately 1.2 million people in the United States have HIV.
However, about 13% of these individuals (156,000 people) do not know they have it.
There is no cure for HIV, but many treatments can help people live long and healthy lives.
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Descovy and Truvada are two drugs that can increase the quality of life following an HIV diagnosis.
These medicines are not used as PEP.
What Is Descovy?
Descovy is a throw in of ART that blocks enzymes the HIV needs to multiply.
Descovy contains two active NRTIs: emtricitabine (FTC) and tenofovir alafenamide (TAF).
Descovy is only a brand-name drug (no generic is available).
It also does not prevent pregnancy.
What Is Truvada?
Like Descovy, Truvada is a pop in of ART that blocks enzymes that the HIV needs to multiply.
Truvada contains two active NRTIs: emtricitabine (FTC) and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF).
Truvada is an orally administered medication available in brand-name and generic forms.
It is FDA-approved for the following:
Like Descovy, Truvada does not protect against other STIs or pregnancy.
Tenofovir in Descovy and Truvada
Descovy and Truvada both contain FTC.
However, the other active ingredient in Descovy and Truvada is slightly different.
Descovy contains TAF, while Truvada contains TDF (tenofovir with a slightly different chemical structure).
Clinical trials show that both drugs are similarly effective.
To continue to take Descovy or Truvada for PrEP, you must remain HIV-1 negative.
If you become HIV-1 positive, you will need additional medication.
Always know your HIV-1 status as well as the status of your partner.
Test for HIV-1 at least every three months or when your healthcare provider recommends.
You should also get tested for other sexually transmitted infections.
Other infections like syphilis, gonorrhea, or chlamydia make it easier for you to be infected with HIV-1.
Notify your healthcare provider immediately if you are exposed to HIV-1.
Do not miss any doses of your medication because missing doses increase the risk of getting HIV-1 infection.
While taking Descovy or Truvada, do not start any new medications without approval from your healthcare provider.
It’s most commonly spread through sharing injection drug needles or other equipment or duringunprotected sex.
Truvada contains FTC and TDF.
Descovy contains FTC and TAF, which may be safer for kidney and bone health.
However, Descovy is not FDA-approved for preventing HIV-1 from injection drug use or receptive vaginal sex.
Neither of these medications treats or prevents other STIs or pregnancy.
Do not store it in the bathroom.
Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.
Keep the medication out of reach of children and pets.
Either medication can be taken with or without food.
The prescribing information does not specify an ideal time of day to take Descovy or Truvada.
Do not skip doses.
The best time is when you will remember to take your medication consistently daily.
DailyMed.Label: Descovy- emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide tablet.
DailyMed,Label: Truvada access- emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate tablet, film coated.
HIV.gov.What are HIV and AIDS?
HIV.gov.Other health issues of special concern for people living with HIV.
DailyMed.Label: Apretude- cabotegravir kit.
HIV Pharmacy Association.Information for patients switching from Truvada to generic tenofovir disoproxil/emtricitabine.
2020;396(10246):239-254. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(20)31065-5
HIVPrep.org.
Descovy (TAF and EM) + alcohol.
2012;8(11):1363-1375. doi:10.1517/17425255.2012.714366
