Tenofovir Disoproxil
About
Tenofovir Disoproxil belongs to the group of medications called ‘antiretroviral drugs’ used to treat HIV infection and chronic hepatitis B. Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a sexually transmitted infection that, over time, leads to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Chronic hepatitis B is a long-term viral infection caused by the hepatitis B virus.
Tenofovir Disoproxil contains ‘Tenofovir disoproxil’, a ‘nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitor’ that works by interfering with the normal working of enzymes (reverse transcriptase in HIV and DNA polymerase in HBV) that are essential for the production of viruses. It effectively reduces the symptoms associated with HIV and chronic hepatitis B infection.
You should use this medicine as prescribed by your doctor. The common side-effects of Tenofovir Disoproxil are diarrhoea, being sick (vomiting), feeling sick (nausea), bloating, flatulence, weakness, dizziness, headache, abdominal pain, and fatigue. However, seek medical attention if the side effects persist or worsen.
Do not take Tenofovir Disoproxil if you are allergic to any of its contents. Patients should take necessary precautions to avoid infecting others. It should be used cautiously in patients with severe liver and kidney diseases. Consult a doctor immediately if you develop any new signs of infection while using this medicine. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
Uses of Tenofovir Disoproxil
Medicinal Benefits
Tenofovir Disoproxil contains ‘Tenofovir disoproxil’, which is an antiretroviral agent. It can effectively cause viral suppression in HIV and chronic hepatitis B. It acts on the enzymes that are essential for the replication of the virus. The enzyme essential for HIV replication is reverse transcriptase, and the enzyme for hepatitis B is DNA polymerase. Tenofovir Disoproxil blocks these enzymes and decreases the viral load in the blood.
Directions for Use
Storage
Side Effects of Tenofovir Disoproxil
- Diarrhoea
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Bloating
- Flatulence
- Weakness
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Abdominal pain
- Fatigue
In-Depth Precautions and Warning
Drug Warnings
Do not take Tenofovir Disoproxil if you are allergic to ‘tenofovir disoproxil’ or any other contents present in it. It is contraindicated in adolescents with kidney failure. When this medicine is used in combination therapy for HIV, there is a risk of osteonecrosis (bone tissue death). There is a severe risk of fatal complications in patients with severe liver diseases, including chronic hepatitis B or C. Consult a doctor immediately if you develop any new signs of infection while using this medicine, as there is a chance of opportunistic infections (infection seen in patients with a weak immune system). Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
Drug Interactions
Drug-Drug Interactions: Tenofovir Disoproxil may interact with a medication used to treat hepatitis B virus (adefovir dipivoxil), drugs used to treat bacterial infections (aminoglycosides, pentamidine, vancomycin), antifungal medicine (amphotericin B), antiviral drugs (didanosine, foscarnet, ganciclovir, and cidofovir), immunotherapy (interleukin-2), immunosuppressant (tacrolimus) and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Drug-Food Interactions: No interactions found.
Drug-Disease Interactions: Tenofovir Disoproxil should be used with caution in patients with severe liver or kidney diseases.
Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:
Safety Advice
Alcohol
cautionConsuming alcohol while using Tenofovir Disoproxil may worsen the condition.
Pregnancy
cautionTenofovir Disoproxil is a category B medicine. It should be used with caution in pregnant women.
Breast Feeding
cautionIn the case of chronic hepatitis B, Tenofovir Disoproxil should be used in breastfeeding mothers only if clinically needed. Avoid breastfeeding if you have HIV.
Driving
cautionTenofovir Disoproxil may cause dizziness. So, avoid driving if you feel dizzy.
Liver
cautionTenofovir Disoproxil should be used with caution if you have liver disease. Dose adjustments may be necessary.
Kidney
cautionTenofovir Disoproxil should not be used in adolescents with kidney failure. In other people with severe kidney diseases, Tenofovir Disoproxil is prescribed only if clinically needed.
Children
cautionTenofovir Disoproxil should be used with caution in children below 12 years of age.
Habit Forming
Diet & Lifestyle Advise
- Eat a diet with fresh fruits and vegetables.
- Option for lean meat such as skinless chicken and fish. Limit processed and high-sugar foods.
- Avoid acidic foods such as tomatoes, lemons, and oranges.
- Limit alcohol intake and quit smoking.
- Exercise regularly as it promotes both physical and mental health.
- Take the necessary precautions to avoid the spread of infection to other people.
Special Advise
Your doctor may regularly monitor liver function, kidney function, and bone density if you take Tenofovir Disoproxil.
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Human immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV): It is a virus that suppresses the immune system and causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) over time. The suppression of immunity leads to the development of opportunistic infections. It is a life-long condition, and there is no permanent cure. The treatment (antiretroviral therapy) is given to suppress the infection.
Chronic Hepatitis B: It is a severe and long-term liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). It spreads by contact with infected body fluids. The symptoms of this condition are abdominal pain, dark urine, and yellowing of the eyes.
FAQs
Tenofovir Disoproxil works by blocking the action of enzymes that are essential for viral replication.
Tenofovir Disoproxil does not affect fertility. However, consult your doctor immediately if you develop any side effects while using Tenofovir Disoproxil.
Tenofovir Disoproxil should be taken as prescribed by your doctor. Abrupt stopping of this medicine may lead to resistance to other medications making the infection difficult to treat.
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