Key takeaways
Odefsey (emtricitabine/rilpivirine/tenofovir alafenamide) and Descovy (emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide) are both combination medications used to treat HIV, but they have some key differences. Odefsey includes three antiretrovirals: rilpivirine, emtricitabine, and tenofovir alafenamide, making it a complete single-tablet regimen for HIV treatment. In contrast, Descovy contains only two antiretrovirals: emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide, and must be taken with another medication to fully treat HIV. Additionally, Descovy is also approved for HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), while Odefsey is not. Odefsey must be taken with a meal, whereas Descovy can be taken with or without food. Both medications are safer for your kidneys and bones compared to older treatments, but Odefsey has more potential interactions with other medications. Common side effects for Odefsey include headaches and sleep problems, while Descovy commonly causes nausea and diarrhea.
