Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. What is Biktarvy?
3. Do You Need a Prescription for Biktarvy?
4. How Does Biktarvy Work?
5. Common Side Effects of Biktarvy
6. What Should You Not Take with Biktarvy?
7. Conclusion

Introduction

Biktarvy is a combination medication used to treat HIV-1 infection in adults and children who are at least 12 years old. It is a single-tablet regimen that contains three active components: bictegravir, emtricitabine, and tenofovir alafenamide. Biktarvy is a prescription drug, and it is important to understand the potential side effects and interactions before taking it. This article will provide an overview of Biktarvy, including information on how it works, what it is used to treat, and potential side effects. It will also discuss what should not be taken with Biktarvy and provide some tips for managing side effects.

What is Biktarvy?

Biktarvy is a combination medication used to treat HIV-1 infection in adults and children who are at least 12 years old. It is a single-tablet regimen that contains three active components: bictegravir, emtricitabine, and tenofovir alafenamide. Bictegravir is an integrase strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI) that works by blocking HIV-1 from integrating into the genetic material of human cells. Emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide are nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) that work by blocking the action of an enzyme called reverse transcriptase, which is needed for HIV-1 to multiply.

Do You Need a Prescription for Biktarvy?

Yes, Biktarvy is a prescription drug. It is important to talk to your doctor before taking Biktarvy to make sure it is the right medication for you. Your doctor will also be able to provide information about potential side effects and interactions with other medications.

How Does Biktarvy Work?

Biktarvy is a combination medication that contains three active components: bictegravir, emtricitabine, and tenofovir alafenamide. Bictegravir is an integrase strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI) that works by blocking HIV-1 from integrating into the genetic material of human cells. Emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide are nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) that work by blocking the action of an enzyme called reverse transcriptase, which is needed for HIV-1 to multiply. By blocking the action of this enzyme, Biktarvy can help reduce the amount of HIV-1 in the body and keep it from spreading to other cells.

Common Side Effects of Biktarvy

The most common side effects of Biktarvy include headache, nausea, diarrhea, and fatigue. Other side effects may include dizziness, rash, abdominal pain, and changes in the way food tastes. It is important to talk to your doctor if you experience any side effects while taking Biktarvy.

What Should You Not Take with Biktarvy?

Biktarvy should not be taken with certain medications, including certain antibiotics, antifungals, and HIV medications. It is important to tell your doctor about all medications you are taking before starting Biktarvy. Your doctor may need to adjust your medications or monitor you more closely if you are taking certain medications with Biktarvy.

Conclusion

Biktarvy is a combination medication used to treat HIV-1 infection in adults and children who are at least 12 years old. It is a single-tablet regimen that contains three active components: bictegravir, emtricitabine, and tenofovir alafenamide. Biktarvy is a prescription drug, and it is important to understand the potential side effects and interactions before taking it. Common side effects of Biktarvy include headache, nausea, diarrhea, and fatigue. Biktarvy should not be taken with certain medications, including certain antibiotics, antifungals, and HIV medications. It is important to talk to your doctor before taking Biktarvy to make sure it is the right medication for you and to discuss potential side effects and interactions with other medications.

Sources:

1. U.S. National Library of Medicine. (2020). Biktarvy. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a620102.html

2. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2020). Biktarvy. Retrieved from https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2020/210506s000lbl.pdf