Truvada is a medication that contains two antiretroviral drugs, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate and emtricitabine, and is used for the treatment and prevention of HIV-1 infection.
Dosage: For the treatment of HIV-1 infection, the recommended dose of Truvada is one tablet (containing 300mg of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate and 200mg of emtricitabine) taken orally once daily with or without food.
For pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to reduce the risk of acquiring HIV-1 infection, the recommended dose of Truvada is one tablet taken orally once daily with or without food. PrEP with Truvada should be used in combination with safer sex practices, including the use of condoms, to further reduce the risk of acquiring HIV-1 infection.
Usage: Truvada should be taken exactly as prescribed by a healthcare provider. It is important to take Truvada regularly to achieve maximum benefit. If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as possible, and the regular dosing schedule should be resumed. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, the missed dose should be skipped and the regular dosing schedule should be resumed.
For individuals taking Truvada for PrEP, regular HIV-1 testing is recommended to ensure that the medication is effective and to detect any possible HIV-1 infection early. Truvada should not be used alone for the treatment of HIV-1 infection, as this can lead to drug resistance.
Truvada may cause side effects, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, and changes in bone mineral density. Serious side effects may include kidney problems and liver problems, although these are rare. It is important to discuss any side effects with a healthcare provider.