Viread® for Chronic Hepatitis B and HIV Treatment

What Viread® Is and How It Works

Viread (tenofovir disoproxil fumarate) is an antiviral for chronic hepatitis B and, in combination, HIV‑1. It blocks viral replication at the reverse transcriptase step. Tablets are taken once daily. Compare the Viread price and buy Viread online at Canadian rates. Many patients look for Viread without insurance and value reliable access. YouDrugstore is a licensed Canadian pharmacy headquartered in Manitoba; prescriptions are reviewed by licensed pharmacists before dispensing. We partner with licensed, vetted international pharmacies to supply authentic brand medicines, offer a wide selection, and keep prices affordable.

Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate is a prodrug. After absorption, it converts to tenofovir and then to tenofovir diphosphate. This metabolite competes with natural nucleotides and causes chain termination. The result is reduced HBV DNA replication and HIV reverse transcription.

Indications include chronic hepatitis B in adults and adolescents. For HIV‑1, Viread is used with other antiretrovirals as part of a complete regimen. It is not used alone for HIV. The usual route is oral tablets. Many prescribers choose once‑daily dosing for simplicity.

Renal elimination is the primary pathway. Dose changes may be needed with impaired kidney function. Bone effects can occur with long‑term use. Prescribers often monitor renal labs and bone health during therapy.

Dosage and Usage

• Chronic hepatitis B: 300 mg by mouth once daily, with or without food.
• HIV‑1 (in combination): 300 mg by mouth once daily with other antiretrovirals.
• Do not use Viread as monotherapy for HIV‑1.
• Assess kidney function before and during treatment. Adjust the dosing interval if creatinine clearance is below 50 mL/min, per the prescriber’s guidance.
• Missed dose: take it when remembered on the same day. If it is close to the next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double.
• Do not stop treatment for hepatitis B without medical advice. Flares can occur after discontinuation.
• Swallow tablets whole with water. Follow the directions provided with your prescription.

• Store tablets at 15–30 °C (59–86 °F) in the original bottle with desiccant.
• Keep the cap tightly closed and protect from moisture and heat.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets.
• For travel, carry your medicine in hand luggage with the label visible.
• Pack extra doses and avoid leaving pills in a hot car.
• Do not use expired tablets. Check the bottle before you travel.

Benefits and Savings

Viread helps suppress HBV DNA and can normalize liver enzymes over time. In HIV‑1 regimens, it supports durable viral suppression when paired with compatible agents. Once‑daily dosing is convenient, and both brand and generic Viread are available. Many people compare Viread cost with alternatives to find the best fit.

Buying from Canada can reduce monthly spending. Typical savings are 60–80% versus common US prices. This can be helpful for those managing Viread no insurance costs or a high deductible. You can set reorder reminders so you do not run out. Multi‑month supplies and bulk promotions can lower the per‑month cost.

Looking for a deal? See current offers on our Viread coupon page.

Side Effects and Safety

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain
• Headache, dizziness, or fatigue
• Rash or itching
• Insomnia
• Back pain or musculoskeletal pain
• Increased creatinine or decreased phosphate on labs
• Reduced bone mineral density over time

Serious effects are less common but need prompt attention. Kidney problems, including acute renal failure and Fanconi syndrome, can occur. Bone issues, including osteomalacia, may appear with long‑term use. Lactic acidosis and severe hepatomegaly with steatosis are rare but serious mitochondrial toxicities. In hepatitis B, severe flares can occur after stopping therapy; monitoring is essential. Important interactions include didanosine (avoid), and heightened tenofovir exposure with boosted regimens or ledipasvir/sofosbuvir; prescribers often monitor renal function closely. Avoid concurrent nephrotoxic drugs when possible.

Onset Time

In hepatitis B, HBV DNA can start to drop within weeks. ALT improvements are often seen within one to three months. HBeAg seroconversion, when it occurs, usually takes months. HBsAg loss is uncommon and typically takes prolonged therapy if achieved.

In HIV‑1 combination regimens, viral load reductions are often measurable within two to four weeks. Most patients reach near‑maximal suppression over eight to 24 weeks when the full regimen is active and well tolerated. CD4 counts can rise gradually across months.

Compare With Alternatives

Tenofovir alafenamide (TAF) is a related prodrug used for hepatitis B and HIV. It reaches high intracellular levels at a lower dose and may have less impact on kidneys and bone. For some patients with renal or bone concerns, TAF‑based therapy may be considered by the prescriber, balanced against access and cost.

For HIV, single‑tablet regimens can improve convenience. One example is Odefsey®, which combines TAF with emtricitabine and rilpivirine. Regimen selection depends on resistance, comorbidities, interactions, and prior treatment history.

Protease inhibitor–based regimens are another path when resistance or intolerance limits options. Kaletra® (lopinavir/ritonavir) can be used with backbone NRTIs. It is less commonly used today but remains relevant in selected cases.

For hepatitis B monotherapy alternatives, entecavir is often considered, especially if TDF is not suitable. Choice depends on prior antiviral exposure, resistance risk, renal function, and patient‑specific factors.

Combination Therapy

• With emtricitabine as a dual NRTI backbone for HBV/HIV regimens.
• With integrase inhibitors such as dolutegravir or bictegravir.
• With NNRTIs such as rilpivirine or efavirenz.
• With boosted protease inhibitors such as lopinavir/ritonavir or atazanavir/ritonavir.
• Avoid with didanosine; increased exposure and toxicity risk.
• Avoid overlapping nephrotoxic agents; monitor renal labs and adjust dosing for impairment.

Patient Suitability and Cost-Saving Tips

Viread is used for adults and adolescents with chronic hepatitis B. For HIV‑1, it is part of combination therapy. It may not suit those with significant renal impairment unless dosing is adjusted, and may be avoided when bone disease is a concern. Decisions should consider labs, comorbidities, and full medication lists.

To save on therapy, consider generic Viread when appropriate. Compare the Viread tablet price across strengths and pack sizes. Ordering a larger supply can reduce monthly costs, and you can turn on reorder reminders. If paying cash, review options for out of pocket Viread to plan your budget. Watch for Viread discount or Viread promo offers when available.

Authoritative Sources

Gilead Viread prescribing information (US)

Health Canada Product Monograph: Viread (tenofovir disoproxil fumarate)

FDA label and Medication Guide for Viread

Order Viread® from YouDrugstore: add to cart, upload your prescription, and we ship with prompt, express, cold-chain handling.

This content is educational and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always speak with your healthcare provider about your specific care.