HIV PrEP (emtricitabine / tenofovir) guide
How to take daily PrEP to reduce the risk of HIV, with testing schedule, adherence, and safety advice.
HIV PrEP (emtricitabine / tenofovir) guide
How to take daily PrEP to reduce the risk of HIV, with testing schedule, adherence, and safety advice.
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- 2 min read
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- Emtricitabine / tenofovir
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How to use
- Take one tablet at the same time each day
Swallow one tablet containing emtricitabine 200 mg and tenofovir disoproxil 245 mg whole, with or without food, once daily. Consistent use is essential for protection.
- Testing before and during PrEP
A negative HIV test from the last 7 days is required before starting. Kidney function, hepatitis B, and STI tests are checked at baseline, with review at least every 3 months.
Before starting. Negative HIV test within 7 days, kidney function, hepatitis B status, and STI tests
At least every 3 months. HIV and STI testing, adherence review, kidney monitoring, and a check for recent exposures or symptoms
Medicines and interactions to review. High-dose or repeated NSAIDs, other nephrotoxic medicines, and any other tenofovir or emtricitabine product need review
Treatment pathway
See the full decision pathway
PrEP start and review
Recent exposure within 72 hours
Seek urgent in-person assessment for PEP. Do not wait for the routine PrEP pathway.
Complete baseline checks
Confirm a negative HIV test within 7 days, no acute-HIV concern, CrCl at least 60 mL/min, hepatitis B status, and baseline STI testing.
Daily treatment and 3-month reviews
Take emtricitabine 200 mg / tenofovir disoproxil 245 mg once daily. Attend HIV, STI, adherence, and kidney reviews at least every 3 months.
Dose schedule
- Daily, 1 tablet once daily
Take daily at the same time. If a dose is missed within 12 hours, take it; if more than 12 hours, skip it and continue.
- Attend the monitoring arranged by your prescriber
Regular HIV, STI, and kidney function monitoring is essential while on PrEP.
Side effects
Early side effects
Nausea, headache, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain can occur after starting. Contact the prescriber if they are troublesome or persistent.
Kidney and bone effects
Long-term use can affect kidney function and bone density. Follow-up blood tests monitor these.
Do not use if
- You are allergic to emtricitabine, tenofovir, or an ingredient in the tablet
- HIV-negative status within the last 7 days has not been confirmed, or acute HIV is possible
- Creatinine clearance is below 60 mL/min or significant renal tubular disease is present
If any item may apply, do not use the medicine until a clinician has reviewed it.
When to contact your doctor
- Signs of lactic acidosis: muscle pain, breathing difficulty, severe tiredness, or an irregular heartbeat
- Kidney symptoms: reduced urine output, swelling in legs or ankles
- You have had a possible HIV exposure and missed doses
Storage
Keep in the original package, away from moisture and direct heat, and out of children's reach. Follow the temperature limit on your pack and do not use it after the expiry date.
What to expect
Daily PrEP significantly reduces the risk of HIV when taken consistently. It requires regular HIV testing. It does not protect against other sexually transmitted infections.
Sources
Questions while you're on treatment?
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