Key takeaways
Tenofovir alafenamide (Vemlidy) and zidovudine (Retrovir) are both nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) used to treat viral infections, but there are some differences. Tenofovir alafenamide is primarily used to treat hepatitis B virus (HBV) in people aged 6 and older, but is also found in combination with other medications to treat treating human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Zidovudine is used to treat HIV and to prevent mother-to-child HIV transmission. Tenofovir alafenamide is taken once daily with food, whereas zidovudine is typically taken twice daily and can be taken with or without food. Tenofovir alafenamide is only available as a brand-name medication, while zidovudine is available in generic form, making it more affordable. Common side effects of tenofovir alafenamide include headache and stomach pain, while zidovudine can cause headache, fatigue, and nausea. Tenofovir alafenamide should not be used alone for HIV treatment, and zidovudine is not a first-choice option for HIV due to its side effects. Additionally, tenofovir alafenamide can interact with NSAIDs, increasing the risk of kidney damage, while zidovudine requires dose adjustments for people with kidney problems.
