Tafsure Tablets

TAFSURE Tablets are a brand name for a medication whose active ingredient is Tenofovir Alafenamide (TAF). It is an antiviral drug primarily used to treat chronic infections caused by the Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and is also used in the treatment of HIV infection.

 

Mechanism of Action

 

TAF is a nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI). It is a prodrug, meaning it is converted into its active form, tenofovir, inside the body's cells, particularly in the liver cells where the hepatitis B virus and HIV reside. The active form of the drug then works by:

• Inhibiting Viral Replication: It interferes with a key enzyme called DNA polymerase in HBV and reverse transcriptase in HIV. These enzymes are essential for the viruses to make new copies of their genetic material and multiply.

• Blocking Viral Reproduction: By blocking these enzymes, TAF stops the viruses from replicating, which reduces the amount of virus in the body (viral load) and helps the immune system to control the infection.

 

Uses

 

TAFSURE is used for:

• Chronic Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) Infection: It is indicated for adults and adolescents with chronic HBV infection, as it effectively reduces the viral load and can improve liver health.

• HIV-1 Infection: It can be used as part of a combination therapy with other antiretroviral drugs to treat HIV-1 infection.

 

Dosage and Administration

 

• TAFSURE is taken orally as a tablet, usually once a day.

• It is recommended to take the tablet with food to increase its absorption into the body.

• It is crucial to take the medication exactly as prescribed by a healthcare professional and not to miss any doses. Stopping the medication abruptly without a doctor's advice can lead to a worsening of the infection.

 

Side Effects

 

TAFSURE is generally well-tolerated. Common side effects may include:

• Headache

• Nausea and vomiting

• Diarrhea

• Fatigue or weakness

• Abdominal pain

• Dizziness

More serious, though less common, side effects can occur. Patients should seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms of:

• Lactic Acidosis: A serious condition where there is a buildup of lactic acid in the blood. Symptoms can include unusual muscle pain, difficulty breathing, and cold hands and feet.

• Severe Liver Problems: Signs can include yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, or light-colored stools.

• Kidney Problems: Regular monitoring of kidney function is often necessary during treatment.

 

Important Considerations

 

• Prescription-only: TAFSURE is a powerful medication and must be used under the supervision of a physician specializing in infectious diseases or liver conditions.

• HIV Screening: Patients should be tested for HIV before starting TAFSURE. If they are co-infected with HIV, the drug must be taken as part of a complete regimen with other anti-HIV medications.

• No Cure: TAFSURE is not a cure for HBV or HIV infection and does not prevent the transmission of the viruses to others. Safe practices are still necessary.