Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Dovato (dolutegravir/lamivudine) and Biktarvy (bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide) are both first-choice treatments for HIV, but they have some key differences. Dovato combines two antiretrovirals (ARVs) into one pill, while Biktarvy combines three ARVs. This means Dovato has fewer medications in its regimen compared to Biktarvy. Dovato is not recommended for people with both HIV and hepatitis B, whereas Biktarvy contains tenofovir, which is also a first-choice treatment for hepatitis B. Both medications are taken once daily and can be taken with or without food, but they have different side effect profiles. Common side effects of Dovato include headache and weight gain, while Biktarvy commonly causes diarrhea, nausea, and headache. Additionally, Dovato has a known risk of causing neural tube defects if taken during the first trimester of pregnancy, whereas there is not enough data to confirm the safety of Biktarvy during pregnancy. Both medications require careful management of drug interactions, especially with antacids and certain other medications.
Dovato (dolutegravir / lamivudine)
Biktarvy
Dovato (dolutegravir / lamivudine)
Biktarvy
Summary of Dovato vs. Biktarvy
Summary for HIV ARV
Prescription only
Dovato (dolutegravir / lamivudine) is used to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections. It's considered a complete HIV treatment regimen with only two antiretroviral (ARV) medications: dolutegravir and lamivudine. One of the benefits of Dovato (dolutegravir / lamivudine) is that it combines two medications into a single tablet so it's convenient to take. Possible side effects of Dovato (dolutegravir / lamivudine) can include headache and weight gain, but they aren't very common with this medication.
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.
Indications of Dovato vs. Biktarvy
Indications for
•Treatment of HIV infection in adults
Indications for
Treatment of HIV infection in adults and children weighing at least 30 lbs, and:
•Starting HIV treatment for the first time, or
•Have a HIV viral load of less than 50 copies/mL from a previous ART