Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Cabenuva (cabotegravir / rilpivirine)
Biktarvy
Cabenuva (cabotegravir / rilpivirine)
Biktarvy
Summary of Cabenuva vs. Biktarvy
Summary for Antiretroviral
Prescription only
Cabenuva (cabotegravir / rilpivirine) is a long-acting combination medication used to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection in certain adults and teens. It includes two injections — cabotegravir and rilpivirine — which are from different classes of antiviral medications. A healthcare professional gives both shots in the buttock muscle either once a month or every other month. It’s meant for people whose HIV is already well controlled and who haven’t had treatment failure. The most common side effects are injection-site reactions, such as pain, redness, and hardening of the skin where the shot is given.
Summary for HIV ARV Combo
Prescription only
Biktarvy is a combination antiretroviral that contains bictegravir, emtricitabine, and tenofovir alafenamide (BIC/FTC/TAF). It's a complete antiretroviral therapy (ART) to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections in adults and children who weigh at least 30 pounds. Biktarvy isn't used for HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), but it is a first-choice option for people starting HIV treatment. Typically, this medication is taken by mouth once daily. Biktarvy doesn't commonly cause weight gain, but it can cause other side effects, such as nausea, diarrhea, and headache.