Tenvir-EM is utilized as part of a treatment regimen of antiretroviral drugs for adults over 18 with HIV-1. Each pill includes a blend of two anti-HIV medications, emtricitabine and Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate; however, Tenvir-EM must be used in conjunction with at least one additional anti-HIV drug to stop HIV from advancing to AIDS.
Tenvir-EM is taken orally once daily, at the same time each day, regardless of meals. Due to the risk of renal impairment associated with Tenvir-EM, patients with a creatinine clearance between 30 and 49 ml/min should limit intake to one tablet every 48 hours, and those with a clearance below 30 ml/min should avoid taking Tenvir-EM entirely. Individuals allergic to either emtricitabine or tenofovir disoproxil fumarate should not use Tenvir-EM.
Common side effects reported with Tenvir-EM include rash, headache, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Less frequent side effects may include: discoloration of palms and soles, abnormal triglyceride levels, abdominal pain, lactic acidosis, anorexia, liver toxicity, and flatulence. Other adverse effects have been recorded by users of Tenvir-EM, so inform your doctor promptly of any health changes upon starting treatment.
Immune reconstitution syndrome might manifest within a few weeks after beginning Tenvir-EM. Patients, particularly those with previous kidney issues, should be monitored for signs of toxicity and to confirm that the HIV viral load stays undetectable at regular intervals. Research regarding the safety and effectiveness of Tenvir-EM in individuals with pre-existing liver conditions is inconclusive. Some individuals with hepatitis B have reported worsening of hepatitis symptoms after abruptly stopping Tenvir-EM. Long-term use of antiretroviral drugs has been associated with changes in body fat distribution and bone structure. Notify your doctor immediately if you observe any sudden bodily changes.
Tenvir-EM may increase the likelihood of kidney problems in patients taking valacyclovir, valganciclovir, acyclovir, ganciclovir, or cidofovir. Combining Tenvir-EM with didanosine may worsen side effects related to didanosine. Atazanavir and lopinavir/ritonavir can intensify side effects associated with Tenvir-EM. Patients using Tenvir-EM should never take atazanavir without also using ritonavir.
Animal studies have indicated no risk of birth defects when pregnant animals were given Tenvir-EM, but studies on humans who are pregnant have not been completed. Low levels of the virus might be found in breast milk even during treatment, thus HIV-infected mothers are advised against breastfeeding due to the risk of transmitting the virus to their child.
The components of Tenvir-EM may be harmful in large quantities, so seek medical help immediately if you consume more than the prescribed dose. Hemodialysis may be necessary to eliminate the substances from the body.