Drug Interactions with Truvada: Information on compatible and incompatible substances, including other medications, alcohol, and various substances.
Truvada, a brand-name oral tablet, plays a significant role in the treatment and prevention of HIV. This medication, which contains emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, is primarily used in adults and children for two primary purposes: treating HIV-1 infection and preventing HIV infection through pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) [1].
Treating HIV-1 Infection
Truvada, in combination with other antiretroviral medications, is approved for adults and children aged 12 years and older who weigh at least 35 kg (77 lbs) for the treatment of HIV-1 infection [1]. This medication helps suppress the virus, but it's essential to note that it does not cure HIV.
Preventing HIV Infection (PrEP)
For those who are HIV-negative but at high risk of acquiring HIV, Truvada is also approved as a preventive measure. It's suitable for adults and adolescents weighing 35 kg or more, including those at risk from vaginal sex, injection drug use, and other forms of sexual exposure [1].
Interactions and Precautions
Before starting Truvada, it's crucial to inform your doctor about all medications, herbs, and supplements you take, as some of these products can interact with Truvada, increasing the risk of side effects or decreasing its effectiveness. Certain drugs, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), other HIV medications, certain antiviral medications, certain antibiotics, certain cancer treatments, certain heart medications, hepatitis C medications, adefovir, orlistat, and atazanavir can interact with Truvada and increase the risk of side effects [2].
Interaction occurs when one substance causes another substance to have a different effect than expected. For instance, echinacea, an herb used to boost the immune system, may interact with Truvada and decrease its effectiveness [2]. Similarly, grapefruit and grapefruit juice can interact with Truvada, increasing the level of tenofovir in your body and risk of side effects [3].
Cannabis (marijuana) and cannabidiol (CBD) have also been reported to interact with Truvada, potentially increasing the risk of side effects [2]. It's also not recommended that you breastfeed while taking Truvada [2].
Certain health conditions, such as kidney or liver problems, may increase the risk of interactions with Truvada [2]. It's essential to discuss any pre-existing health conditions with your doctor before starting Truvada treatment.
Sharing information about supplements, herbs, and vitamins with your doctor and pharmacist may help prevent interactions with Truvada [2]. It's also worth noting that there aren't any known interactions between Truvada and alcohol, but drinking alcohol may increase your risk of certain side effects of Truvada [2]. Additionally, there aren't any known interactions between Truvada and vaccines [2].
Truvada may interact with supplements, foods, vaccines, or lab tests. However, Truvada isn't known to interact with any lab tests [1]. If you have a bone condition, such as osteoporosis, taking Truvada may weaken your bones even more [2].
In conclusion, Truvada is a vital tool in the fight against HIV, serving both as a treatment for those already infected and as a preventive measure for those at high risk. However, it's crucial to be aware of potential interactions and precautions to ensure safe and effective use of the medication. Always consult with your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about Truvada.
[1] CDC.gov: Truvada for PrEP
[2] FDA.gov: Highlights of Prescribing Information, Truvada
[3] Aidsinfo.nih.gov: Truvada Drug Information
- In the medical-conditions category, those with kidney or liver problems might have an increased risk of interactions with Truvada during treatment.
- Science has shown that Truvada, when used for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), can help prevent sexual transmissions of HIV in individuals who are at high risk but are HIV-negative.
- The health-and-wellness field advises individuals to inform their doctors about all medications, herbs, and supplements they take to prevent interactions with Truvada, which could potentially increase side effects or reduce its effectiveness.
- HIV-positive patients using Truvada in conjunction with other antiretroviral treatments can find relief from some HIV-related symptoms, but it's important to remember that Truvada does not cure HIV; it only helps suppress the virus.
