Tenofovir Alafenamide Tablets

Tenofovir Alafenamide (TAF) is an antiviral medication that is a prodrug of tenofovir. It is used to treat chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and is also a key component in combination therapies for the treatment and prevention of HIV-1 infection. TAF is a newer formulation of tenofovir that is designed to be more effective at lower doses and have a better safety profile, particularly regarding kidney and bone health, compared to its predecessor, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF).

Tenofovir Alafenamide is indicated for:

• Chronic Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) Infection: It is used in adults and children who have compensated liver disease.

• HIV-1 Infection: TAF is not used alone for HIV, but is a crucial part of combination single-tablet regimens (STRs) for treating and preventing HIV-1 in adults and adolescents. These combination products may include other antiretrovirals like emtricitabine, bictegravir, and cobicistat.

Tenofovir Alafenamide is a nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI). Once it's absorbed by the body, TAF is converted into tenofovir. This active form then interferes with the reverse transcriptase enzyme used by both the HBV and HIV viruses to replicate their genetic material. By blocking this process, the medication helps to reduce the amount of virus in the body, which can help to control the disease and prevent further damage to organs like the liver.

Tenofovir Alafenamide is taken orally as a tablet, typically once a day with food. It is crucial to follow the prescribed dosage and not to miss any doses, as this can lead to the virus developing resistance to the medication, making it ineffective.

While TAF is considered to have a better safety profile than TDF, it can still cause side effects. Common side effects may include:

• Headache

• Nausea and vomiting

• Diarrhea

• Abdominal pain

• Fatigue

• Cough

• Back and joint pain

Serious side effects are less common but can occur. You should contact your doctor immediately if you experience:

• Severe Acute Exacerbation of Hepatitis B: If you have HBV and stop taking the medication, your hepatitis B could worsen, potentially leading to liver failure.

• Lactic Acidosis: A buildup of lactic acid in the blood, which can be a serious medical emergency. Symptoms include unusual muscle pain, difficulty breathing, and stomach pain with nausea and vomiting.

• Liver Damage: Symptoms can include yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, and stomach pain.

• Kidney Problems: Though less common than with TDF, TAF can still cause kidney damage. Your doctor will monitor your kidney function regularly.