This page contains brief details about the drug , it's indication, dosage & administaration, mechanism of action, related brands with strength, warnings and common side effects.

Background and Date of Approval

Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate is an antiviral medication, which was approved for its medical use on 26th October 2001.

Mechanism of Action of undefined

Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate Tablet is an antiretroviral medication belonging to the category of nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors. It works by increasing the number of CD4 T cells and stimulates the immune system to fight against infections. Thereby, it reduces the viral load of HIV in the blood and decreases the severity of HIV infection.

Uses of undefined

Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate has been developed to treat Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV-1) and Hepatitis B virus (HBV) in adults and children above the age of 2 years.

undefined Drug administaration and Dosage available

Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate is available as film coated tablets in the dose 300mg. The usual recommended dosage of this medication is one tablet everyday with or without food. For adults and children with body weight over 35kg, the usual recommended dose is 300mg per day. For children weighing between 17kg and 35kg, the accurate dose will be calculated by the physician based on the child’s body weight.

Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of undefined

Warnings

Do not take this medication if you have experienced hypersensitivity reactions to Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate or any of its ingredients. During the Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate Tablet treatment, your doctor may periodically monitor your blood counts, bone mineral density, liver and kidney parameters to prevent serious complications. Report to your doctor if you have had a history of heart failure, pancreatitis, bone disease, fractures, liver or kidney problems. 

Precautions

Adults of childbearing potential should consider using an effective contraceptive to prevent unwanted pregnancy. If you are pregnant or think you might be pregnant, your physician might suggest an alternative treatment as this medication is not recommended during early pregnancy. Breastfeeding is not recommended due to potential transmission of HIV from mother to the baby.

Side Effects

The common side effects that are likely to occur while you are on the treatment with Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate Tablet are pain, depression, nausea, vomiting, weakness, headache, diarrhoea, rash, stomach pain, sleeping problems, dizziness, itching and fever. Some serious adverse reactions include bone loss, liver problems, kidney injury, immune reconstitution syndrome and lactic acidosis. If you experience any allergic reactions after taking this tablet, report to your doctor immediately.

Word Of Advice

Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate can make you feel dizzy and tired. Hence, you should avoid driving or handling machines during this treatment. Do not stop taking Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate Tablet without consulting your healthcare provider.

Frequently Asked Question

References

1. KD Tripathi, Antiviral Drugs (Anti-retrovirus), Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, 8th Edition, 2019, 860-872.

2. Gilead Sciences, Inc., U.S. Food and Drug Administration, [Revised on Apr 2019] [Accessed on 17th Sep 2022], https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/pepfar/210787PI.pdf

Disclaimer

The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice, it is meant for educational purposes only. For further details consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you are eligible to receive this treatment.