Key takeaways
Tivicay (dolutegravir) and Genvoya (elvitegravir/cobicistat/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide) are both medications used to treat HIV, but they have some key differences. Tivicay is an integrase inhibitor that blocks the enzyme HIV uses to insert its genetic material into your cells. It comes in two formulations: a tablet and a tablet for suspension, and it does not have a generic version. Genvoya, on the other hand, is a combination of four medications: two NRTIs (emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide), an integrase inhibitor (elvitegravir), and a booster (cobicistat). Genvoya is taken as a single tablet once daily with food and also does not have a generic version. Tivicay must be taken with other HIV antiretrovirals to make up a complete treatment regimen. While Tivicay can be used for post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), Genvoya is not approved for PEP or pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Additionally, Tivicay can be used in children as young as 4 weeks old, whereas Genvoya is only for adults and children who weigh at least 55 pounds. Both medications have potential side effects and interactions with other medications, but Genvoya has specific warnings about worsening hepatitis B if stopped suddenly and must be taken with food.
