Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (Viread)
Triumeq
Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (Viread)
Triumeq
Summary of Viread vs. Triumeq
Summary for Antiretroviral (ARV)
Prescription only
Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (Viread), also known as TDF, is a first-choice medication that's used as part of an antiretroviral (ARV) regimen for treating human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections. It's also a preferred medication used for treating hepatitis B virus (HBV). Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, the active ingredient in Viread, is also found in Truvada, a combination medication commonly used for HIV PrEP. Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (Viread) is available as both an oral tablet and a powder that's mixed with soft food. Common side effects include rash, diarrhea, and headache.
Summary for HIV ARV
Prescription only
Triumeq is a single-tablet regimen used to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections. It contains 3 antiretrovirals (ARVs): abacavir, dolutegravir, and lamivudine. Triumeq is available as either a tablet or a dissolvable tablet for oral suspension (Triumeq PD), but the two are not the same. Before starting treatment, your provider will require you to get a genetic test to see if you're at risk for developing a serious allergic reaction to this medication.
Indications of Viread vs. Triumeq
Indications for
•Treatment of HIV infection - people ages 2 years and older
•Treatment of chronic (long-term) hepatitis B - Brand Viread for people ages 2 years and older; generic for people ages 12 years and older
Indications for
•Treatment of HIV infection (in people who weigh at least 22 pounds)
Pros and Cons of Viread vs. Triumeq
Pros and Const for Antiretroviral (ARV)
Pros
•Can treat both HIV and HBV infections
•Only taken once a day
•Available in a powder form that can be mixed with soft foods for people who have difficulty swallowing pills
•Tablet form is available as a lower-cost generic medication
Cons
•Requires regular blood work and lab tests to make sure your liver and kidneys are healthy
•Can worsen hepatitis B if stopped all of a sudden
•More likely to cause bone problems compared to similar medications