Tenofovir Disoproxil
About Tenofovir Disoproxil
Tenofovir Disoproxil belongs to the group of medications called ‘antiretroviral drugs’ used to treat HIV infection and chronic hepatitis B. Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a sexually transmitted infection that, over time, leads to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Chronic hepatitis B is a long-term viral infection caused by the hepatitis B virus.
Tenofovir Disoproxil contains ‘Tenofovir disoproxil’, a ‘nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitor’ that works by interfering with the normal working of enzymes (reverse transcriptase in HIV and DNA polymerase in HBV) that are essential for the production of viruses. It effectively reduces the symptoms associated with HIV and chronic hepatitis B infection.
You should use this medicine as prescribed by your doctor. The common side-effects of Tenofovir Disoproxil are diarrhoea, being sick (vomiting), feeling sick (nausea), bloating, flatulence, weakness, dizziness, headache, abdominal pain, and fatigue. However, seek medical attention if the side effects persist or worsen.
Do not take Tenofovir Disoproxil if you are allergic to any of its contents. Patients should take necessary precautions to avoid infecting others. It should be used cautiously in patients with severe liver and kidney diseases. Consult a doctor immediately if you develop any new signs of infection while using this medicine. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
Uses of Tenofovir Disoproxil
Medicinal Benefits
Tenofovir Disoproxil contains ‘Tenofovir disoproxil’, which is an antiretroviral agent. It can effectively cause viral suppression in HIV and chronic hepatitis B. It acts on the enzymes that are essential for the replication of the virus. The enzyme essential for HIV replication is reverse transcriptase, and the enzyme for hepatitis B is DNA polymerase. Tenofovir Disoproxil blocks these enzymes and decreases the viral load in the blood.
Directions for Use
Storage
Side Effects of Tenofovir Disoproxil
- Diarrhoea
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Bloating
- Flatulence
- Weakness
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Abdominal pain
- Fatigue
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Human immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV): It is a virus that suppresses the immune system and causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) over time. The suppression of immunity leads to the development of opportunistic infections. It is a life-long condition, and there is no permanent cure. The treatment (antiretroviral therapy) is given to suppress the infection.
Chronic Hepatitis B: It is a severe and long-term liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). It spreads by contact with infected body fluids. The symptoms of this condition are abdominal pain, dark urine, and yellowing of the eyes.
FAQs
Tenofovir Disoproxil works by blocking the action of enzymes that are essential for viral replication.
Tenofovir Disoproxil does not affect fertility. However, consult your doctor immediately if you develop any side effects while using Tenofovir Disoproxil.
Tenofovir Disoproxil should be taken as prescribed by your doctor. Abrupt stopping of this medicine may lead to resistance to other medications making the infection difficult to treat.