Truvada is a drug that contains Emtricitabine and Tenofovir disoproxil, two compounds with antiretroviral properties, capable of preventing contamination with the HIV virus and also helping in its treatment.
This remedy can be used to prevent a person from becoming infected with HIV because it acts by interfering with the normal activity of the enzyme reverse transcriptase, essential in the replication of the HIV virus. In this way, this remedy reduces the amount of HIV in the body, thus improving the immune system.
This medication is also known as PrEP, because it is a type of pre-exposure prophylaxis against the HIV virus, and it reduces the chance of being infected sexually by almost 100% and by 70% through the use of shared syringes. However, its use does not exclude the need to use condoms in all intimate contact, nor does it exclude other forms of HIV prevention.
Price
The price of Truvada varies between 500 and 1000 reais, and although it is not sold in Brazil, it can be purchased in online stores. The Ministry of Health's wish is that it be distributed free of charge by SUS.
Indications
- To prevent AIDS
Truvada is indicated for all people who are at high risk of contamination such as partners of HIV positive people, doctors, nurses and dentists who care for infected people, and also in the case of sex workers, homosexuals and people who change partners frequently or use injecting drugs.
- To treat AIDS
It is recommended for adults to fight the HIV virus type 1 in combination with other medications indicated by the doctor, respecting its dosage and method of use.
How to take
Generally, 1 tablet should be taken daily, according to the instructions given by the doctor who prescribed the medication. The dose and duration of treatment vary from one person to another and should therefore be indicated by a specialist.
People who have had sex without a condom or who have been exposed in some way to the HIV virus can start taking this medicine, which is also known as PreP, for up to 72 hours.
Side effects
Some of the side effects of Truvada may include headache, dizziness, extreme tiredness, abnormal dreams, difficulty sleeping, vomiting, stomach pain, gas, confusion, digestion problems, diarrhea, nausea, swelling in the body, fullness, darkening of the spotty skin, hives, red spots and swelling of the skin, pain or itchy skin.
Contraindications
This remedy is contraindicated for children and adolescents under 18 years old, patients with allergies to emtricitabine, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate or other components of the formula.
In addition, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have kidney problems or illnesses, liver diseases such as chronic hepatitis B or C, overweight, diabetes, cholesterol or if you are over 65, you should talk to your doctor first to start treatment.
