Biktarvy: Detailed Information on Its Adverse Effects, Price, Practical Uses, Proper Dosage, and Other Similar Options
Biktarvy, an oral, once-daily single-tablet regimen, is a popular treatment for HIV-1 infection in both adults and children weighing at least 14 kg (31 lbs). This medication, approved by the FDA, combines three antiretroviral drugs: bictegravir (an integrase strand transfer inhibitor), emtricitabine, and tenofovir alafenamide (both nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors) [1][2][3].
Biktarvy is a convenient and effective treatment option, either as initial therapy or to maintain viral suppression when switching from other regimens. It is taken once daily by mouth, with or without food, and it is not combined with other HIV medicines since it is a complete regimen itself [1][2].
The medication works by blocking the action of certain enzymes that HIV uses to make copies of itself. Specifically, bictegravir sodium blocks the action of an enzyme called integrase, while emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide block the action of an enzyme called reverse transcriptase [1].
While taking Biktarvy every day is crucial to prevent HIV from becoming resistant, it is essential to note that missing doses can increase the risk of HIV becoming resistant to the medication. It is also important to be aware that alcohol and Biktarvy can cause some similar side effects, so you may be more likely to have these side effects if you drink alcohol while taking Biktarvy [1].
It's important to note that Biktarvy is not used for anything other than HIV. To prevent HIV from passing to others, it is recommended to use condoms, choose sexual activities less likely to transmit HIV, get tested and treated for other sexually transmitted infections, don't share needles, syringes, or other drug-injecting equipment, and don't breastfeed [4].
Biktarvy has a boxed warning about the risk of worsening hepatitis B after stopping Biktarvy for people who have HIV and hepatitis B. If you have hepatitis B and take Biktarvy to treat HIV, stopping Biktarvy can cause your hepatitis B to get worse [1].
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Before taking Biktarvy, discuss all medications, supplements, and foods you take with your doctor and pharmacist to avoid potential interactions. If you have questions about this warning, talk with your doctor.
It's not known if it's safe to breastfeed while taking Biktarvy. If you're planning a pregnancy or can become pregnant, talk with your doctor about potential treatments for HIV during pregnancy. If you're sexually active and you or your partner can become pregnant, talk with your doctor about your birth control needs while you're using Biktarvy.
Biktarvy is not FDA-approved for preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) of HIV. If you have questions about how much alcohol is safe to drink while taking Biktarvy, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
References: [1] Gilead Sciences, Inc. (2021). Biktarvy. Retrieved from
- Biktarvy is not only a treatment for HIV-1 infection in adults and children, but it's also an option for maintaining viral suppression in those switching from other regimens, typically taken once daily.
- The science behind Biktarvy involves three antiretroviral drugs: bictegravir, emtricitabine, and tenofovir alafenamide, which combine to block enzymes integral to HIV's replication, such as integrase and reverse transcriptase.
- It's crucial to discuss all medications, supplements, and foods with a doctor and pharmacist while on Biktarvy to avoid potential interactions, and it's essential to note that Biktarvy is not recommended for anything other than HIV treatment.
- In regards to health and wellness, practicing safe sexual behaviors, such as using condoms, seeking treatment for other sexually transmitted infections, and not breastfeeding, is recommended to prevent HIV transmission to others.
