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Compare Atripla vs. Triumeq

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Atripla (efavirenz/emtricitabine/tenofovir) and Triumeq (abacavir/dolutegravir/lamivudine) are both single-tablet regimens used to treat HIV, but they have some key differences. Atripla contains a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI) and two nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs), while Triumeq includes an integrase inhibitor and two NRTIs. Atripla must be taken on an empty stomach, preferably at bedtime to avoid side effects like dizziness, whereas Triumeq can be taken with or without food. Triumeq requires a genetic test before starting to check for a risk of serious allergic reactions, which is not needed for Atripla. Additionally, Atripla is available as a generic, making it potentially more affordable, while Triumeq is not. Both medications have significant side effects and interactions, but Atripla is particularly noted for its potential to cause kidney and bone problems, while Triumeq has a higher risk of severe allergic reactions and liver issues.

  • Atripla
    Triumeq
  • Atripla
    Triumeq

  • Summary of Atripla vs. Triumeq

    Summary for HIV ARV
    Prescription only

    Atripla is a combination antiviral medication used to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). It's a tablet that has three active ingredients: efavirenz, emtricitabine, and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF). Atripla is for adults and children who weigh at least 88 lbs. You take it once a day by mouth on an empty stomach. Some side effects include diarrhea, nausea, and depression. The brand name Atripla isn't sold anymore, but you can still get this medication as a generic.

    Summary for HIV ARV
    Prescription only

    Triumeq is a single-tablet regimen used to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections. It contains 3 antiretrovirals (ARVs): abacavir, dolutegravir, and lamivudine. Triumeq is available as either a tablet or a dissolvable tablet for oral suspension (Triumeq PD), but the two are not the same. Before starting treatment, your provider will require you to get a genetic test to see if you're at risk for developing a serious allergic reaction to this medication.

  • Indications of Atripla vs. Triumeq

    Indications for
    •HIV treatment
    Indications for
    •Treatment of HIV infection (in people who weigh at least 22 pounds)

  • Pros and Cons of Atripla vs. Triumeq

    Pros and Const for HIV ARV
    Pros
    •Is a full HIV treatment regimen
    •Combines 3 HIV medications into 1 tablet for convenience
    •Taken once a day
    •Not likely to cause weight gain
    •Okay for children weighing at least 88 lbs to take
    Cons
    •Must take on an empty stomach, preferably at bedtime
    •Might have strange dreams while taking
    •Interacts with other medications, including some other HIV medications and hepatitis C medications
    •Risk of kidney and bone problems
    •Not recommended for people with moderate or severe kidney or liver problems
    Pros and Const for HIV ARV
    Pros
    •Only taken once a day for complete HIV treatment
    •Combines three medications into one pill for convenience
    •Can be taken with or without food
    •Available for adults and children at or over 22 lbs
    Cons
    •Dose can't be adjusted so it's not recommended for people with kidney or liver problems
    •Not safe to use in severe liver problems
    •Requires a genetic test before starting
    •Interacts with a lot of medications such as St. John’s wort and oxcarbazepine (Trileptal)

  • Common Side Effects of Atripla vs. Triumeq

    Common Side Effects for
    •Tiredness (9%)
    •Depression (9%)
    •Nausea (9%)
    •Diarrhea (9%)
    •Dizziness (8%)
    •Upper respiratory tract infections (8%)
    •Sinus infection (8%)
    •Rash (7%)
    •Headache (6%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Higher lipase levels (suggesting irritated pancreas) (up to 11%)
    •Higher blood sugar levels (up to 9%)
    •Higher creatine kinase levels in the blood (suggesting muscle damage) (up to 7%)
    •Higher fat levels in the blood (up to 6%)
    •Higher white blood cell count (up to 4%)
    •Abnormal liver labs (up to 3%)
    •Trouble sleeping (3%)
    •Headache (2%)
    •Feeling tired (2%)

    Please note: The side effects listed above are from clinical trials with Tivicay (dolutegravir) and Epzicom (abacavir / lamivudine), which are all active ingredients in Triumeq and Triumeq PD

  • Warnings of Atripla vs. Triumeq

    Common Side Effects for
    •Worsening of hepatitis B infection in people with HIV and hepatitis B
    •Liver problems
    •Effects on mental health
    •Side effects related to the nervous system (e.g., dizziness, trouble sleeping)
    •Kidney problems
    •Bone problems
    •Lactic acidosis
    •Overactive immune system
    •Changes in body fat
    •Interactions with other medications
    •Harm to an unborn baby
    Common Side Effects for
    •Serious allergic reaction
    •Worsening of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection
    •Liver problems
    •Overactive immune system
    •Interaction with other medications

  • Prices with our coupons for Atripla vs. Triumeq

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    Learn more about Triumeq

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