Viread

Viread is an antiretroviral medication used in the treatment of HIV-1 in adults, often in combination with other anti-HIV drugs. It is also utilized for post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) to prevent HIV infection after potential exposure. Viread contains tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, which helps to prevent the virus from multiplying in the body, thereby slowing the progression of the disease.

Benefits

Viread is effective in managing HIV-1 infection when used as part of a combination therapy. It helps to reduce the viral load in the body, maintain immune function, and delay the progression to AIDS.

How to Use

Viread is typically taken orally once a day, with or without food. It is important to follow the prescribed dosage and schedule as directed by a healthcare provider. Adjustments may be necessary for patients with impaired kidney function.

Possible Side Effects

• Mild side effects: nausea, rash, diarrhea, asthenia, vomiting, flatulence.
• Severe side effects: renal impairment or failure, interstitial nephritis, Fanconi syndrome, hepatomegaly with steatosis, lactic acidosis, tubular necrosis, nephrogenic diabetes insipidus.

Patients should report any changes in their health to their doctor.

Warnings and Precautions

Patients may experience immune reconstitution syndrome when starting Viread. Those with hepatitis B may have an acute exacerbation of symptoms after discontinuing the medication. Monitoring is recommended for several months after stopping Viread. There is a risk of decreased bone mineral density and osteomalacia. Caution is advised when taking nephrotoxic drugs concurrently.

Drug Interactions

Viread should not be taken with didanosine, lamivudine, or abacavir, as these can reduce its effectiveness. Co-administration with atazanavir or lopinavir/ritonavir may increase side effects. Atazanavir without ritonavir should not be used with Viread.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

There is no evidence of increased birth defects in animal studies, and no human cases have been reported. However, breastfeeding is not recommended due to the risk of HIV transmission to the infant.

Overdosage

In case of overdose, patients should be monitored for toxicity and may require hemodialysis to remove excess medication from the body.