Warnings and precautions when using emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide tablets (Descovy)

When using emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide tablets (Descovy, Descovy) as a drug to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, you need to pay attention to some warnings and precautions to ensure the efficacy and safety of the drug. The following details the warnings and precautions that need to be observed when using emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide tablets.

Warning:

1.Drug allergic reaction: During the use of emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide tablets, if symptoms of allergic reactions such as skin rash, shortness of breath, throat swelling, and facial swelling occur, you should stop taking the medication immediately and seek medical help. Allergic reactions can be serious and require prompt attention.

2.Abnormal liver function: Using emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide tablets may cause abnormal liver function. During treatment, liver function tests need to be performed regularly to ensure that the drug is not having adverse effects on the liver. If symptoms of abnormal liver function such as jaundice, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting occur, you should inform your doctor immediately.

3.Bone health problems: Long-term use of emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide tablets may affect bone health and increase the risk of fractures. Especially the elderly and people with low bone density need to pay attention to bone health issues. During the treatment period, it is recommended to appropriately increase the intake of calcium and vitamin D and conduct regular bone density examinations.

Notes:

1.Physician guidance: Before starting to use emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide tablets, be sure to consult a professional physician. The doctor will develop an individualized treatment plan based on your specific situation and determine the appropriate dose and medication time.

2.Medication time and dosage: Strictly follow the doctor's advice and take the medicine according to the accurate time and dosage. Do not adjust the dosage on your own, and do not skip medications to avoid affecting the efficacy of the medication.

3.Drug Interactions: Always tell your doctor if you are using other drugs (including prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements). Certain drugs may interact with emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide tablets, affecting the efficacy of the drug or increasing the risk of side effects.

4.Pregnancy and lactation: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, you should inform your doctor before using emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide tablets. Your doctor will evaluate the safety of your medication and help you make the right decision.

5.Side effects management: If you experience side effects while using drugs, such as headache, nausea, diarrhea, etc., you should inform your doctor in time. Your doctor can provide appropriate advice to help you manage these side effects.

6.Drug storage: Emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide tablets should be stored in a dry, cool place, away from direct sunlight and humid environments.

When using emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide tablets as a treatment forHIV infection, you need to strictly follow the doctor's instructions and recommendations. Pay attention to warnings and precautions and conduct regular medical monitoring to ensure the efficacy of the drug, reduce the risk of side effects, and improve the success rate of treatment. If any questions or concerns arise during medication, be sure to communicate with your doctor promptly.

Emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide tablets have been launched in China, but they have not yet been included in medical insurance. Patients can purchase them domestically at their own expense. The price is around 3,000 yuan, which is relatively expensive. Please consult the local hospital pharmacy for specific prices. Foreign original drugs are more expensive, and original drugs can be purchased domestically. The cheaper ones abroad are Indian generic drugs, which cost around 200~360 yuan. The price is much cheaper than domestic prices, and the ingredients of original drugs and generic drugs are basically the same.