Key takeaways
Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (Viread) and emtricitabine/rilpivirine/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (Complera) are both medications used to treat HIV. They both contain tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, which is a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) that helps prevent the virus from making copies of itself. Viread is also FDA-approved for treating chronic hepatitis B, while Complera is not. Viread can be taken as a single medication for treatment of hepatits B or as part of a combination therapy for treatment of HIV, whereas Complera is a single-tablet regimen for treatment of HIV that combines three medications: emtricitabine, rilpivirine, and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate. Viread is available as a tablet and a powder, while Complera is only available as a tablet. Viread is typically taken once daily, and its dosage can be adjusted for children based on weight, while Complera is taken once daily with food and is not recommended for people with kidney problems. Common side effects of Viread include rash, diarrhea, and headache, while Complera may cause mood changes, depression, and trouble sleeping. Both medications can lead to kidney and bone problems, so regular monitoring is important.
