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.
