Key takeaways
Emtriva (emtricitabine) and Retrovir (zidovudine) are both HIV antiretroviral (ARV) medications used to treat HIV. They belong to the same drug class, nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs), and work by stopping the virus from making copies of itself. However, they have some differences. Emtriva is a first-choice medication for HIV treatment but must be taken with other ARVs. Emtriva is taken once a day, while Retrovir is not a first-choice option due to its side effects and is taken twice a day. Emtriva is available as a capsule and oral solution, whereas Retrovir is available as a capsule, oral solution, and IV form. Emtriva is often used in combination with other HIV ARVs for prevention, but only the combination tablets are FDA-approved for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Retrovir is specifically used for preventing mother-to-child HIV transmission. Common side effects of Emtriva include nausea and fatigue, while Retrovir can cause headaches and nausea more frequently. Retrovir can also lead to serious blood and muscle problems, making it less favorable for some people.
