Viread 300mg (Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate) is equivalent to Viread 245mg (Tenofovir) used internationally. The exact same amount of medicine is in US vs International versions of Viread.
Information about Viread (Tenofovir)
Viread (Tenofovir) is an antiretroviral medication that belongs to a class of drugs known as nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs). It is primarily used in the treatment of HIV-1 and chronic hepatitis B infections. Tenofovir works by inhibiting the reverse transcriptase enzyme, which HIV and the hepatitis B virus need to replicate. By blocking this enzyme, Tenofovir helps to reduce the viral load and prevents the virus from spreading.
Product Highlights
- It is used as part of a combination therapy for the treatment of HIV-1 in adults and pediatric patients.
- Viread is approved for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B virus infection in adults and children aged 2 years and older.
Key Ingredient
Key Benefits
- Tenofovir helps decrease the amount of HIV or hepatitis B virus in the bloodstream, reducing the risk of progression to AIDS or liver disease.
- By reducing viral replication, it helps the immune system to recover and function more effectively.
- When used in combination with other antiretrovirals, it increases the chances of successful long-term viral suppression in HIV treatment.
- Tenofovir has shown effectiveness in both the short and long term, helping to control HIV and HBV infections when used as prescribed.
Direction of Use
- The usual dose for adults is 300 mg once daily with or without food.
- For children, the dose depends on body weight and should be determined by a healthcare provider.
- For hepatitis B, the dosing is generally 300 mg once daily, similar to the dose for HIV treatment.
- The tablets should be swallowed whole. Avoid chewing, crushing, or splitting the tablets.
- It’s important to take the medication regularly at the same time every day to achieve the best results.
Safety Concerns
- Tenofovir can affect kidney function, particularly in patients who have pre-existing kidney disease. Kidney function should be monitored regularly throughout the treatment.
- Prolonged use of Tenofovir may be associated with reduced bone mineral density, leading to increased risk of fractures.
- Rare but serious side effects include lactic acidosis (buildup of lactic acid in the blood) and liver enlargement, which could be life-threatening.
- Patients with pre-existing liver disease (especially hepatitis B or C) may experience worsened liver function.
- Tenofovir can interact with other medications, including certain medications for kidney conditions, HIV treatments, and antiviral drugs. A healthcare provider should be consulted before starting new medications.
Avoid Viread (Tenofovir) If
- Viread should be avoided in individuals with significant kidney impairment, as it can worsen kidney function.
- If you have a known hypersensitivity to Tenofovir or other components of the medication, you should not use Viread.
- Tenofovir should only be used during pregnancy if clearly needed. The benefits should be weighed against any potential risks.
- Those with bone density problems or kidney disease should use Viread cautiously, under strict medical supervision.
- If you have hepatitis B and are also taking medications for liver issues, Viread should be used cautiously. Monitoring is essential to avoid exacerbation of liver problems.
