Key takeaways
Vemlidy (tenofovir alafenamide) and Baraclude (entecavir) are both first-choice medications for treating hepatitis B, but they have some differences. Vemlidy is only available as a brand-name medication, while Baraclude has both a brand-name and a generic version. Vemlidy is taken once daily with food, whereas Baraclude must be taken on an empty stomach. Vemlidy is less harmful to your kidneys and bones compared to other hepatitis B medications like Viread, but it can still cause kidney problems and requires you to avoid NSAIDs. Baraclude, on the other hand, is not known to cause kidney damage and is available as a liquid solution for children and those who have trouble swallowing tablets. Both medications can cause serious liver problems and lactic acidosis, but Baraclude is more likely to cause these issues in women and people with obesity. Additionally, Vemlidy cannot be used alone if you have both HIV and hepatitis B, while Baraclude is not recommended for people with both infections due to the risk of HIV drug resistance.
