Tenofovir disoproxil, often sold under the brand name Viread, is a medication used to treat chronic hepatitis B and HIV/AIDS . It is typically used in combination with other medications. It can also be used to prevent HIV/AIDS in people at high risk, such as before potential exposure or after a needlestick injury. It is available as a tablet or powder that is taken by mouth.
Tenofovir is a nucleotide analog reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) [2]. It works by interfering with the virus's ability to make copies of itself. Specifically, it inhibits the reverse transcriptase enzyme, which is essential for the virus to convert its RNA into DNA. This prevents the virus from replicating and infecting new cells.
Tenofovir is a very effective medication for treating HIV and hepatitis B. However, it is not a cure for either infection. People taking tenofovir will need to continue taking it for life.
Here are some additional things to know about tenofovir:
- It is typically taken once a day with or without food.
- It can cause some side effects, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and headache. These side effects are usually mild and go away over time.
- It can also cause more serious side effects, such as bone loss and kidney problems. These side effects are less common, but it is important to be aware of them.
- Tenofovir can interact with other medications. It is important to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking before starting tenofovir.