Biktarvy (Bictegravir sodium+Emtricitabine+Tenofovir alafenamide FC Tablet) 50mg/200mg/25mg

Biktarvy is a combination antiretroviral medication used to treat HIV-1 infection. It is designed to lower the amount of HIV in the body, helping to improve the immune system and reduce the risk of HIV-related illnesses.

• HIV-1 infection in adults and adolescents (≥12 years) who are treatment-naïve: Biktarvy is used to treat HIV-1 infection in patients who have not previously received antiretroviral therapy.
• Combination therapy for HIV-1 infection: Biktarvy is used in combination with other antiretroviral medications to treat HIV-1 infection in patients who require a complete regimen.

• Biktarvy works through a combination of mechanisms. Bictegravir inhibits HIV-1 integrase, preventing the integration of viral DNA into the host cell's DNA. Emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide are nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors that work by causing chain termination during viral DNA synthesis, thereby preventing the virus from replicating.

Biktarvy, like all medications, can cause side effects. Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, and headache. Serious or rare side effects may include liver problems, kidney problems, and bone problems.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Rash

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Liver problems, including hepatitis B reactivation
• Kidney problems
• Bone problems, including bone loss or fractures
• Immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS)
• Lactic acidosis and severe hepatomegaly with steatosis

Before taking Biktarvy, it is important to discuss your medical history and any other medications you are taking with your healthcare provider. Biktarvy should be used with caution in patients with liver or kidney problems. Regular monitoring of liver and kidney function is recommended.

• Inform your healthcare provider if you have liver or kidney problems: Regular monitoring of liver and kidney function is recommended.
• Inform your healthcare provider if you have hepatitis B: Biktarvy may cause hepatitis B reactivation.
• Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or breastfeeding: The safety of Biktarvy in pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established.
• Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking other medications: Biktarvy can interact with other medications, including certain antacids and other antiretroviral medications.
• Store below 25°C: Keep in the original pack, protect from moisture.

Biktarvy can interact with other medications, which may affect how it works or increase the risk of side effects. It is important to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, including prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Rifampin: Can decrease the concentration of Biktarvy, reducing its effectiveness.
• Carbamazepine, oxcarbazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin: Can decrease the concentration of Biktarvy, reducing its effectiveness.
• Proton pump inhibitors (e.g., omeprazole, lansoprazole): Can decrease the concentration of Biktarvy, reducing its effectiveness.
• St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum): Can decrease the concentration of Biktarvy, reducing its effectiveness.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium: Can decrease the concentration of Biktarvy, reducing its effectiveness.
• Other antiretroviral medications: May increase the risk of side effects or reduce the effectiveness of Biktarvy.