Key takeaways
Abacavir (Ziagen) and Stribild (elvitegravir/cobicistat/emtricitabine/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate) are both medications used to treat HIV. They are part of the HIV antiretroviral (ARV) class, but they work differently. Abacavir (Ziagen) is a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) that stops the virus from making copies of itself by pretending to be a DNA building block. Abacavir must be taken with other antiretrovirals for treatment of HIV. Stribild, on the other hand, is a combination medication that includes an integrase inhibitor (elvitegravir) and two NRTIs (emtricitabine and tenofovir), along with a booster (cobicistat) to enhance the effect of elvitegravir. Abacavir (Ziagen) is available as a generic and can be taken as a tablet or oral solution, while Stribild is a single-tablet regimen taken once daily with food. Abacavir requires a genetic test before use due to the risk of a severe allergic reaction, whereas Stribild has more drug interactions and is not recommended for people with kidney or liver problems. Common side effects of abacavir include headache and nausea, while Stribild may cause nausea and diarrhea. Both medications can lead to immune reconstitution syndrome, but Stribild also poses risks for kidney and bone problems.
