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Emtricitabine / tenofovir alafenamide (Descovy®)

Antiretroviral

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What is Descovy®?

Descovy® is a tablet that contains 2 medicines used to treat infection caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The 2 medications are called emtricitabine (Emtriva®), and tenofovir alafenamide. Emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide belong to a group called nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs). Descovy can slow down how soon you will see symptoms of HIV or slow the damage caused by HIV, but it cannot cure HIV infection. Descovy tablets contain 200 mg of emtricitabine, and 25 mg of tenofovir alafenamide.

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Possible side effects

  • Rash
  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea

    These are the most common side effects, but there may be others. Please report all side effects to the doctor or nurse.

Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, hives, itching, chills, fever, headache, muscle ache, shortness of breath, coughing, tightness in the throat, swelling of the face or neck.

Not all patients who take Descovy® will experience these side effects. Common side effects are bolded, but there may be others. Please report all suspected side effects to your doctor or pharmacist.

Find more information on side effects.

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Possible late effects

  • During the first few weeks of therapy, some people taking Descovy develop a skin rash and 2 or more of the following symptoms:
  • Fever
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Stomach pain
  • Severe tired feeling, achiness, or other “flu-like” symptoms
  • Sore throat, shortness of breath, or cough

If you develop a rash during the first few weeks of therapy and you have 2 or more of these symptoms, stop taking Descovy right away and call your St. Jude doctor or nurse. You should not take Descovy again unless the doctor tells you to do so.

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Tips for patients and families

Be sure to discuss all questions and instructions with your doctor or pharmacist. 

  • Store this medicine in a cool, dry place at room temperature and out of reach of children and pets.
  • Keep the lid closed tightly and away from heat and moisture.
  • Some side effects, such as low blood counts, can be found with blood tests. It is important that you come to the clinic at regularly planned times and have blood tests done.

Drug at Home:

  • This tablet is usually taken one (1) time daily.
  • Descovy can be taken with or without food. Taking this medicine right after you have eaten a meal may help prevent upset stomach.
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Always check the medication label. Many medicines look the same. Do not take any new medicine, including over-the counter medicines or supplements, without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about what to do in the case of a missed dose, allergic reaction, or medical emergency. 

This information is not intended to be a complete guide and is not a substitute for talking with your provider. Medicine names, appearance, formulas, or availability may vary by clinic location. Always follow the instructions given by your care team.

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