Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Vemlidy (tenofovir alafenamide) and Truvada (emtricitabine/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate) are both antiretroviral medications, but they are used for different purposes. Vemlidy is primarily used to treat hepatitis B virus (HBV) in people aged 6 years and older, while Truvada is used to treat and prevent HIV infections. Vemlidy is taken once daily with food and is less harmful to your kidneys and bones compared to Viread, another form of tenofovir. On the other hand, Truvada is also taken once daily but can be taken with or without food and is available as a lower-cost generic medication. Truvada is a combination of two medications and is a complete regimen for HIV PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis). Both medications cannot be used alone to treat HIV. Both medications can cause kidney and bone problems, but Truvada requires regular blood work to monitor your liver and kidneys. Additionally, stopping either medication suddenly can worsen hepatitis B.
Vemlidy (tenofovir alafenamide)
Truvada
Vemlidy (tenofovir alafenamide)
Truvada
Summary of Vemlidy vs. Truvada
Summary for Antiretroviral (ARV)
Prescription only
Vemlidy (tenofovir alafenamide), also known as TAF, is a first-choice medication for treating hepatitis B virus (HBV) for adults and children ages 6 years and older weighing at least 55 lbs. Tenofovir alafenamide is also found in combination with other antiretrovirals in medications such as Biktarvy to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Vemlidy (tenofovir alafenamide) is taken by mouth, typically once daily. Some of the more common side effects of Vemlidy (tenofovir alafenamide) include headache, stomach pain, and cough.
Summary for HIV ARV Combo
Prescription only
Truvada, also known as TDF/FTC, is a combination medication that contains the antiretrovirals emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate. Truvada is used as part of an antiretroviral (ARV) regimen to treat HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) infections in adults and children. It's also preferred for HIV PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis or prevention). This medication works against HIV by stopping the virus from making copies of itself and spreading. Truvada tablets are taken by mouth once daily. Side effects when it's used for treating HIV include nausea, diarrhea, and dizziness. And Truvada side effects when used for PrEP include headache and belly pain.
Indications of Vemlidy vs. Truvada
Indications for
•Hepatitis B virus (HBV) in people ages 6 years and older weighing at least 55 lbs