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MEDICATION SAFETY

Emtricitabine/tenofovir safety summary

  • INN
  • emtricitabine / tenofovir disoproxil
  • nucleos(t)ide reverse-transcriptase inhibitors
  • 200 mg/245 mg once-daily oral tablet (PrEP)

Emtricitabine/tenofovir disoproxil is the daily combination tablet used as HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Taken consistently every day it is highly effective at preventing HIV — but it comes with a testing rhythm: an HIV test before starting and every 3 months, plus regular kidney checks. It does not protect against other sexually transmitted infections.

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to reduce the risk of sexually acquired HIV-1 in HIV-negative adults at elevated risk.

  • One tablet once a day, preferably with food.
  • Only start after a confirmed negative HIV test — and repeat the test every 3 months while on PrEP.
  • Protection depends on taking it every day; missed doses lower it substantially.
  • Keep using condoms — PrEP does not protect against other STIs or pregnancy.

Rare, but each has a clear action.

  • Kidney problems — changes in how much you urinate, swelling of ankles or feet, unusual fatigue. Kidney function is monitored with blood tests for exactly this reason.
  • Lactic acidosis (very rare) — deep rapid breathing, unusual muscle pain, severe exhaustion; needs urgent care.
  • Signs of a new HIV infection — fever, sore throat, swollen glands after a possible exposure — get tested immediately; continuing PrEP with an undetected infection breeds resistance.
  • If you carry hepatitis B: stopping this medicine can trigger a severe flare of the hepatitis — never stop without medical advice.

WHEN TO CALL THE DOCTOR

Call us through the in-app chat if you notice…

  • A possible HIV exposure while you had missed doses.
  • Fever, sore throat or swollen glands.
  • Changes in urination, or swelling in your legs or ankles.
  • You want to stop PrEP — especially if you have hepatitis B; stopping needs a plan, not just an empty box.

OFFICIAL SOURCE

This summary is condensed from the regulator's full product leaflet for ease of reading. The complete document — every interaction, dose adjustment and reporting note — is one click away.

AEMPS CIMA — Emtricitabine/tenofovir 200 mg/245 mg

This page summarises information from the regulator-approved leaflet for reference only. It is not medical advice and does not replace the assessment of an EU-licensed doctor. Your doctor will review your individual history, dose and interactions during your consultation.

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