Key takeaways
Evotaz (atazanavir/cobicistat) and Genvoya (elvitegravir/cobicistat/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide) are both antiretroviral medications used to treat HIV. They both contain cobicistat, which acts as a "booster" to enhance the effectiveness of other components. However, they differ in their composition and specific roles in HIV treatment. Evotaz combines atazanavir, a protease inhibitor, with cobicistat and must be taken with other HIV medications, as it is not a complete regimen on its own. In contrast, Genvoya is a complete regimen that includes elvitegravir, an integrase strand transfer inhibitor, along with two nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs), emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide. Both medications are only available in a branded version. Common side effects of Evotaz include jaundice and rash, whereas Genvoya may cause nausea and diarrhea. Both medications have significant drug interactions, but Genvoya specifically warns against use with certain medications like carbamazepine and lovastatin. Neither medication is recommended during pregnancy.
