Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate is used together with other medicines to treat Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection which can lead to Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS).
This medicine may also be used to treat infections of the liver known as hepatitis B.
Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate is not a cure for HIV. It only helps to keep the virus in check and can help improve the quality of life. It does not prevent the spread of HIV to other people.
Take Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
This medicine must be taken with meals. Try to take it at the same time each day.
Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate is available as a tablet, oral powder or granules.
If you are taking the powder or granule form, mix it with soft food such as applesauce, baby food or yogurt to avoid bitter taste and swallow it immediately.
Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate must be taken at regular intervals as instructed for it to be effective. Continue to take this medicine even when you feel better. Do not stop taking it unless instructed by the doctor.
If you miss a dose and it is less than 12 hours passed from your usual dosing time, take the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
If it is more than 12 hours passed from your usual dosing time, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Alert your doctor if you ever had an allergic reaction (breathlessness, rashes, swollen eyes) to similar antiviral medications as this medicine may not be suitable for you.
Do not breastfeed while being treated with Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate.
Inform your doctor if you have kidney and liver disease.
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant.
If you have HIV, it is best that you do not breastfeed as HIV passes into the breast milk. Avoid breastfeeding in order to reduce the risk of passing HIV to your baby. It is recommended to give your baby commercial infant formula provided that you have access to clean water and facilities.
Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate does not reduce your risk of passing the HIV or hepatitis infection to others through sexual contact or through contamination with infected blood. Ensure that you use proper precautions to avoid spreading HIV or hepatitis to others.
Why is it important to keep my appointments with the doctor?
Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly.
- HIV tests must be done before you start your treatment with Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate.
- Routine tests (e.g. liver/kidney function, bone density) may be done while you are being treated with this medicine.
Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have these tests.
Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate may cause dizziness. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert.
Other side effects include any of the following: nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting, stomach pain, stomach wind, headache, weakness, tiredness, flu-like symptoms, depression and difficulty sleeping.
If you develop rashes, breathlessness, swollen mouth or eyes, stop taking this medicine and inform your doctor immediately. These could be signs of an allergic reaction.
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience any other side effects.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- other medicines to treat viral infections e.g. atazanavir, cidofovir, foscarnet, didanosine
- certain antibiotics e.g. vancomycin
- amphotericin B (medicine to treat fungal infection)
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
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