Tenof EM

• Helps reduce the HIV viral load

• Protects CD4 immune cells

• Supports normal immune function

• Slows the progression of HIV

• Reduces the risk of HIV-related infections

• Combines two antiretroviral medicines in one tablet

• Provides convenient once-daily dosing

• Reduces the risk of acquiring HIV when used correctly for PrEP

Tenof EM provides the greatest benefit when every dose is taken on schedule. Missing doses can reduce protection and increase the risk of drug resistance.

HIV uses an enzyme called reverse transcriptase to copy its genetic material and multiply inside human cells.

Emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate block this enzyme. This interrupts the formation of new viral DNA and prevents HIV from producing new copies.

During HIV treatment, this action lowers the viral load and helps protect CD4 immune cells. During PrEP use, the medicine helps stop HIV from establishing an infection after exposure.

The standard adult dose of Tenof EM is one tablet taken once daily, with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole with water and take it at the same time each day.

For HIV treatment, Tenof EM must be taken with other prescribed antiretroviral medicines. For PrEP, HIV testing is required before starting and at least once every three months during use. Kidney function and hepatitis B status must also be checked.

Do not skip doses or stop treatment without medical advice. If a dose is missed, take it when remembered unless the next dose is nearly due. Do not take two tablets together.

Common Side Effects

Common side effects include nausea, diarrhoea, headache, tiredness, dizziness, trouble sleeping, stomach discomfort and mild skin rash. These effects are often manageable, but medical advice is needed if they continue or make it difficult to take the medicine regularly.

Serious Side Effects

Serious side effects include kidney damage, reduced bone strength, lactic acidosis, severe liver problems and allergic reactions. Seek urgent help for reduced urination, swelling, persistent bone pain, unusual weakness, rapid breathing, severe stomach pain, yellow skin or eyes, facial swelling or difficulty breathing. Stopping Tenof EM suddenly in a person with hepatitis B can cause the liver infection to become worse.

Before taking Tenof Em, tell your healthcare professional if you have: 

• An allergy to either ingredientof the medicine

• People with unknown HIV status using it for PrEP

• People with confirmed HIV using it alone

• People with significant kidney impairment

• People taking other tenofovir-containing medicines

• People taking other emtricitabine-containing medicines

• Store below 30°C.

• Keep the tablets in their original container.

• Keep the container tightly closed.

• Protect the medicine from heat and moisture.

• Keep it away from direct sunlight.

• Keep it out of reach of children and pets.

• Do not use damaged or discoloured tablets.

• Do not use the medicine after its expiry date.