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Genvoya vs. Sustiva

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

Key takeaways

Genvoya (elvitegravir/cobicistat/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide) and Efavirenz (Sustiva) are both used to treat HIV infections, but they have some key differences. Genvoya is a combination of four medications, including two NRTIs, an INSTI, and a booster, and is taken once daily with food. Efavirenz (Sustiva), on the other hand, is a single NNRTI that is taken once daily at bedtime on an empty stomach. Genvoya is not available as a generic, while Efavirenz (Sustiva) is available in both brand-name and generic forms. Genvoya is not recommended for use during pregnancy, and neither is Efavirenz (Sustiva), which can cause birth defects if taken during the first trimester. Common side effects of Genvoya include nausea and diarrhea, whereas Efavirenz (Sustiva) can cause dizziness, trouble sleeping, and rash. Additionally, Efavirenz (Sustiva) has more potential for serious side effects, such as nerve issues and mood problems, compared to Genvoya.

Genvoya

 

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Efavirenz

(Sustiva)

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Summary for Genvoya

Prescription only

Genvoya (elvitegravir / cobicistat / emtricitabine / tenofovir alafenamide) is a combination antiretroviral therapy (ART) that treats human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections in adults and children. It's made up of two nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs), emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide; an integrase strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI) called elvitegravir; and a "booster" medication known as cobicistat. Genvoya is taken by mouth, typically once daily. Some common side effects of this medication include nausea and diarrhea. It's not available as a generic medication.

Indications for Genvoya

Pros and Cons for Genvoya

Pros

  • Is a complete regimen for HIV treatment
  • Only taken once a day
  • Taken by mouth

Cons

  • Needs to be taken with food
  • Can’t take while pregnant
  • Can worsen hepatitis B if you stop taking the medication all of a sudden

Common Side Effects for Genvoya

  • Nausea (11%)
  • Diarrhea (7%)
  • Headache (6%)
  • Feeling tired (5%)

Warnings for Genvoya

  • Worsening of hepatitis B infection
  • Kidney problems
  • Liver problems and lactic acidosis
  • Overactive immune system
  • Interaction with other medications

Summary for Sustiva

Prescription only

Efavirenz (Sustiva) is a medication that's used in combination with other antiretroviral (ARV) therapy to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections. It comes as oral tablets and capsules that are swallowed whole. The capsules can also be opened up and sprinkled in liquid for people who have trouble swallowing. Some side effects of this medication are rash, diarrhea, and nausea. Efavirenz (Sustiva) is available as both a brand-name and generic medication.

Indications for Sustiva

  • Treatment of HIV infection in people ages 3 months and older

Pros and Cons for Sustiva

Pros

  • Only taken once a day
  • Capsule form can be opened and sprinkled on soft food or liquid, such as applesauce or milk, so convenient for people with difficulty swallowing pills
  • Available as a lower-cost generic medication
  • Can be used in young children 3 months and older who weigh over 7.7 lbs

Cons

  • Has many potentially serious side effects and risks (e.g., nerve issues, irregular heartbeat)
  • Needs to be taken on an empty stomach
  • Not recommended during pregnancy
  • Interacts with a lot of medications

Common Side Effects for Sustiva

The following side effects were reported in adults taking this medication with other HIV ARVs. Side effects might differ in children.

  • Rash (5-16%)
  • Diarrhea (3-14%)
  • Pain (1-13%)
  • Higher triglyceride (fat) levels (6-11%)
  • Low white blood cell count (2-10%)
  • Nausea (2-10%)
  • Dizziness (2-9%)
  • Feeling tired (2-8%)
  • Higher liver enzymes (5-8%)
  • Headache (2-8%)
  • Difficulty sleeping (7%)
  • Vomiting (3-6%)
  • Trouble concentrating (3-5%)

Warnings for Sustiva

  • Heart rhythm problems (QT prolongation)
  • Effects on the brain, nerves, and mental health
  • Harm to unborn baby
  • Severe skin and allergic reactions
  • Liver problems
  • Higher cholesterol levels
  • Changes in body fat
  • Overactive immune system
  • Interactions with other medications

Prices with our coupons for Genvoya vs. Sustiva

Price Card Drug Icon
Genvoya30 tablets / 150mg/150mg/200mg/10mg
$3,872.52$5,470.52
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Price Card Drug Icon
Efavirenz30 tablets / 600mg of
$46.13$1,326.48
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