Efavirenz + Emtricitabine + Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate

Dosage Forms Available

• Efavirenz + Emtricitabine + Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate is available as a tablet for oral consumption.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• This combination is meant for use by adults and children who weigh at least 40 kg.

Contraindications

• This combination is contraindicated in patients with moderate to severe renal impairment or end-stage kidney disease requiring dialysis.

• It is also contraindicated in patients with severe hepatic impairment.

Other Medications to Avoid

• This combination may interact with antifungals (such as voriconazole), anticonvulsants (like carbamazepine and phenytoin), antimycobacterial medicines (such as rifampin and rifabutin), benzodiazepines (like midazolam and triazolam), ergot derivatives, and HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (like simvastatin and atorvastatin).

• It may also affect the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives; so, alternative or additional methods should be considered.

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose of this medication may lead to an exacerbation of its side effects, such as dizziness, insomnia, or abnormal dreams. If an overdose is suspected, monitoring for signs of toxicity is crucial, and supportive treatment should be applied.

• If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time of your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this combination. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• Consider taking the medication at bedtime to reduce some side effects, such as dizziness.

• Staying hydrated may help manage minor side effects like nausea.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• This combination may impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. Dizziness is a common side effect that could affect such activities. It is advisable not to engage in these activities if you feel dizzy after taking the medicine.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• This combination may cause fetal harm when administered during the first trimester of pregnancy. It is not recommended during pregnancy unless clearly needed.

• Breastfeeding is not recommended while taking this combination due to the risk of HIV-1 transmission through milk.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Patients with existing kidney problems should be cautious as the medication can worsen kidney function. Regular monitoring of kidney function is recommended.

• Individuals with existing liver conditions or co-infected with hepatitis B should use this combination with caution. It could exacerbate liver problems or cause flare-ups of hepatitis B if discontinued abruptly.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• As bone health can be affected by Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate present in this combination, incorporating dietary sources rich in calcium and vitamin D may aid in maintaining bone density.