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Compare Triumeq vs. Biktarvy

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

Key takeaways

Triumeq (abacavir/dolutegravir/lamivudine) and Biktarvy (bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir) are both single-tablet regimens used to treat HIV, but they have some key differences. Triumeq requires a genetic test before starting treatment to check for a specific trait that could cause a serious allergic reaction, while Biktarvy does not. Triumeq is available in two forms: a tablet for adults and children over 55 lbs, and a dissolvable tablet for children between 13 lbs and 54 lbs. Biktarvy, on the other hand, is only available as a tablet for those weighing at least 30 lbs. Both medications can cause liver problems and need to be taken with caution if you have severe liver or kidney issues. Both medications are also brand-only and can be expensive.

  • Triumeq
    Biktarvy
  • Triumeq
    Biktarvy

  • Summary of Triumeq vs. Biktarvy

    Summary for HIV ARV
    Prescription only

    Triumeq is a single-tablet regimen used to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections. It contains 3 antiretrovirals (ARVs): abacavir, dolutegravir, and lamivudine. Triumeq is available as either a tablet or a dissolvable tablet for oral suspension (Triumeq PD), but the two are not the same. Before starting treatment, your provider will require you to get a genetic test to see if you're at risk for developing a serious allergic reaction to this medication.

    Summary for HIV ARV Combo
    Prescription only

    Biktarvy is a combination antiretroviral that contains bictegravir, emtricitabine, and tenofovir alafenamide (BIC/FTC/TAF). It's a complete antiretroviral therapy (ART) to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections in adults and children who weigh at least 30 pounds. Biktarvy isn't used for HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), but it is a first-choice option for people starting HIV treatment. Typically, this medication is taken by mouth once daily. Biktarvy doesn't commonly cause weight gain, but it can cause other side effects, such as nausea, diarrhea, and headache.

  • Indications of Triumeq vs. Biktarvy

    Indications for
    •Treatment of HIV infection (in people who weigh at least 22 pounds)
    Indications for

    Treatment of HIV infection in adults and children weighing at least 30 lbs, and:

    •Starting HIV treatment for the first time, or
    •Have a HIV viral load of less than 50 copies/mL from a previous ART

  • Pros and Cons of Triumeq vs. Biktarvy

    Pros and Const for HIV ARV
    Pros
    •Only taken once a day for complete HIV treatment
    •Combines three medications into one pill for convenience
    •Can be taken with or without food
    •Available for adults and children at or over 22 lbs
    Cons
    •Dose can't be adjusted so it's not recommended for people with kidney or liver problems
    •Not safe to use in severe liver problems
    •Requires a genetic test before starting
    •Interacts with a lot of medications such as St. John’s wort and oxcarbazepine (Trileptal)
    Pros and Const for HIV ARV Combo
    Pros
    •Only taken once a day
    •First-choice option for people who've never taken ART
    •Possible option during pregnancy
    Cons
    •Might not be safe for people with kidney or liver problems
    •Must take at least 2 hours before or 6 hours after antacids containing magnesium or aluminum
    •Must store in original bottle

  • Common Side Effects of Triumeq vs. Biktarvy

    Common Side Effects for
    •Higher lipase levels (suggesting irritated pancreas) (up to 11%)
    •Higher blood sugar levels (up to 9%)
    •Higher creatine kinase levels in the blood (suggesting muscle damage) (up to 7%)
    •Higher fat levels in the blood (up to 6%)
    •Higher white blood cell count (up to 4%)
    •Abnormal liver labs (up to 3%)
    •Trouble sleeping (3%)
    •Headache (2%)
    •Feeling tired (2%)

    Please note: The side effects listed above are from clinical trials with Tivicay (dolutegravir) and Epzicom (abacavir / lamivudine), which are all active ingredients in Triumeq and Triumeq PD

    Common Side Effects for
    •Diarrhea (6%)
    •Nausea (6%)
    •Headache (5%)

  • Warnings of Triumeq vs. Biktarvy

    Common Side Effects for
    •Serious allergic reaction
    •Worsening of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection
    •Liver problems
    •Overactive immune system
    •Interaction with other medications
    Common Side Effects for
    •Worsening of hepatitis B infection
    •Overactive immune system
    •Kidney problems
    •Liver problems and lactic acidosis
    •Interaction with other medications

  • Prices with our coupons for Triumeq vs. Biktarvy

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