Key takeaways
Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (Viread) and peginterferon alfa-2a (Pegasys) are both used to treat chronic hepatitis B, but they belong to different medication classes. Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate is a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) and is also used to treat HIV infections when taken in combination with other HIV medications, while peginterferon alfa-2a is an interferon alpha used for hepatitis C as well. Tenofovir is taken orally once a day, available as a tablet or powder, and is also used off-label for HIV PrEP. Peginterferon alfa-2a is injected under the skin once a week. Tenofovir is available as a generic, while peginterferon is not. Common side effects of tenofovir include rash, diarrhea, and headache, whereas peginterferon can cause tiredness, headache, and fever. Tenofovir can interact with certain hepatitis C and HIV medications, while peginterferon can cause serious side effects like mental health issues and infections.
