Brand names: Viread®
Chemical formula:
- Drug Forms:
- Tenofovir, PMPA tablets (below)
- Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate Oral tablet
Tenofovir, PMPA tablets
What are tenofovir tablets?
TENOFOVIR, PMPA (Viread™) is a drug used to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Tenofovir is an antiviral drug called a nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitor. Tenofovir may reduce the amount of HIV in the blood and increase the number of CD4 cells (T-cells) in the blood. Tenofovir is used in combination with other drugs to treat the HIV virus. Tenofovir will not cure or prevent HIV infection or AIDS. You may still develop other infections or conditions associated with HIV. Generic tenofovir capsules are not yet available.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• bone disease or osteoporosis
• kidney disease or a history of kidney disease
• liver disease
• an unusual or allergic reaction to tenofovir, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding
How should I take this medicine?
Take tenofovir tablets by mouth. You may take this medicine with or without food. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.
To help to make sure that your anti-HIV therapy works as well as possible, be very careful to take all of your medicine exactly as prescribed. Do not stop taking except on your prescriber's advice.
Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.What drug(s) may interact with tenofovir?
• amphotericin B
• antiviral agents (such as acyclovir, cidofovir, foscarnet, ganciclovir, valacyclovir, valganciclovir)
• cyclosporine
• didanosine, ddI
• hydroxyurea
• lopinavir
• probenecid
• tacrolimus
Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including nonprescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What should I watch for while taking tenofovir?
Visit your prescriber or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Discuss any new symptoms with your prescriber or health care professional.
Tenofovir will not cure HIV and you can still get other illnesses or complications associated with your disease. Taking tenofovir does not reduce the risk of passing HIV infection to others through sexual or blood contact. It is best to avoid sexual contact so that you do not spread the disease to others. For any sexual contact, use a condom. Be careful about cuts, abrasions, and other possible sources of blood contact. Never share a needle or syringe with anyone.
What side effects may I notice from taking tenofovir?
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
• breathing difficulties or shortness of breath
• changes in body appearance (weight gain around waist and/or face)
• dizziness
• muscle aches, pains, or weakness
• passing out or fainting
• severe vomiting or diarrhea
• slow or irregular heartbeat
• symptoms of high blood sugar: dizziness, dry mouth, flushed dry-skin, fruit-like breath odor, loss of appetite, nausea, stomach ache, unusual thirst, frequent passing of urine
• unusual stomach pain or discomfort
• unusual weakness, fatigue or discomfort
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• diarrhea
• gas
• headache
• loss of appetite
• nausea, vomiting
• stomach pain
• tiredness
Where can I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open.
Store at room temperature between 15—25 degrees C (59—77 degrees F). Protect from light and moisture. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
Last updated: 7/1/2002
Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.
