Key takeaways
Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (Viread) and emtricitabine/rilpivirine/tenofovir alafenamide (Odefsey) are both medications used to treat HIV. They belong to the antiretroviral (ARV) class, but they differ in their specific formulations and uses. Viread is a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) and is also approved for treating hepatitis B virus (HBV), while Odefsey is a combination of three ARVs, including a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI) and two NRTIs, and is only approved for HIV treatment. Viread is available as a tablet and a powder and must be used with other antivirals for the treatment of HIV, while Odefsey is a single-tablet regimen for the treatment of HIV. Viread is available as a generic, making it a more cost-effective option, whereas Odefsey is not. Common side effects of Viread include rash, diarrhea, and headache, while Odefsey may cause headaches and sleep problems. Both medications can affect your kidneys and bones, but Odefsey is considered safer for these organs compared to older formulations like Complera. Viread requires regular blood tests to monitor liver and kidney health, and it interacts with certain hepatitis C and HIV medications. Odefsey must be taken with a meal and has many drug interactions, including with medications for tuberculosis, seizures, and stomach acid.
