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Compare Emtriva vs. Descovy

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

Key takeaways

Emtricitabine (Emtriva) and Descovy (emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide) are both used to treat and prevent HIV, but they have some key differences. Emtricitabine (Emtriva) is a single medication, while Descovy is a combination of two antiretrovirals (ARVs). Both medications must be combined with other HIV ARVs for effective treatment of HIV. However, Descovy is a complete regimen for HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Descovy is preferred for PrEP but is not effective for females at risk of HIV through receptive vaginal sex. Emtricitabine (Emtriva) is available as both a capsule and an oral solution, whereas Descovy is only available as a tablet. Both medications require regular lab tests to monitor their effectiveness and potential side effects, but Descovy is noted to be safer for the kidneys and bones compared to another similar medication, Truvada. Additionally, both medications can worsen hepatitis B if stopped suddenly, so it's important to follow your healthcare provider's instructions closely.

  • Emtricitabine (Emtriva)
    Descovy (emtricitabine / tenofovir alafenamide)
  • Emtricitabine (Emtriva)
    Descovy (emtricitabine / tenofovir alafenamide)

  • Summary of Emtriva vs. Descovy

    Summary for HIV ARV
    Prescription only

    Emtricitabine (Emtriva) is a first choice HIV antiretroviral (ARV) used in combination with other HIV ARVs for the treatment and prevention of HIV. It is one of the most common HIV ARVs used around the world.

    Summary for HIV ARV Combo
    Prescription only

    Descovy (emtricitabine / tenofovir alafenamide), also known as FTC/TAF, is a combination antiretroviral. It's used as part of an antiretroviral therapy (ART) to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections in adults and children. It's also preferred for HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Descovy (emtricitabine / tenofovir alafenamide) works against HIV by stopping the virus from making copies of itself and spreading. Typically, this medication is taken by mouth once daily. Some common side effects of Descovy (emtricitabine / tenofovir alafenamide) include nausea and diarrhea.

  • Indications of Emtriva vs. Descovy

    Indications for
    •HIV treatment
    Indications for
    •Treatment of HIV infection
    •Prevention of HIV infection (PrEP) through sexual intercourse, except for receptive vaginal sex

  • Pros and Cons of Emtriva vs. Descovy

    Pros and Const for HIV ARV
    Pros
    •Very effective against HIV, with few side effects
    •Taken only once a day with or without food
    •Available in many combination tablets with other HIV ARVs
    •Available as a capsule and oral solution
    •Can be used in pregnancy and in children right after they are born
    Cons
    •Dose must be adjusted if you have kidney problems
    •Must be used in combination with other HIV ARVs
    •The oral solution is absorbed less than the capsule, so the dose is higher
    •Some people with hepatitis B virus (HBV) have worsening of the liver after stopping emtricitabine (Emtriva)
    •Requires regular labs to make sure the medication is working against HIV and to check your kidney and liver
    Pros and Const for HIV ARV Combo
    Pros
    •Only taken once a day
    •Is a complete regimen for HIV PrEP
    •Safer for the kidneys and bones compared to Truvada, another PrEP medication
    Cons
    •Not a complete treatment for HIV (must take one other medication with it)
    •Can worsen hepatitis B if you stop taking the medication all of a sudden
    •Requires regular blood work and lab tests to make sure your kidneys are healthy

  • Common Side Effects of Emtriva vs. Descovy

    Common Side Effects for
    •Changes in labs (30%)
    •Nausea (9%)
    •Fatigue (9%)
    •Diarrhea (9%)
    •Dizziness (8%)
    •Flu/cold (8%)
    •Runny nose (8%)
    •Rash (7%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Diarrhea (5%)
    •Nausea (4%)

    Note: Side effects were reported by people who took Descovy alone for PrEP.

  • Warnings of Emtriva vs. Descovy

    Common Side Effects for
    •WORSENING OF HEPATITIS B
    •IMMUNE RECONSTITUTION SYNDROME
    •LIVER PROBLEMS
    Common Side Effects for
    •Worsening of hepatitis B infection
    •PrEP only for people who test negative for HIV
    •Kidney problems
    •Overactive immune system
    •Liver problems and lactic acidosis
    •Interaction with other medications

  • Prices with our coupons for Emtriva vs. Descovy

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