Biktarvy (Bictegravir / Emtricitabine / Tenofovir Alafenamide)

Biktarvy is a single pill that combines three drugs to treat HIV-1 infection. Bictegravir works as an integrase strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI), while emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide work as nucleoside analog reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs). Each drug works in a different way to block the virus from making copies of itself, which helps control HIV in the body. Although some people may have both HIV and hepatitis B, Biktarvy is not used to treat hepatitis B infection.

Directions

Biktarvy is taken orally as one tablet once daily with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole and not crush, chew, or split it.

The standard dose contains 50 mg of bictegravir, 200 mg of emtricitabine, and 25 mg of tenofovir alafenamide in a single combination tablet. The exact dosage may depend on a person's age, weight, and kidney function.

If a dose is missed and it's been less than 18 hours since the usual dosing time, take the missed dose as soon as possible and then resume the regular schedule. However, if more than 18 hours have passed, do not take the missed dose and wait until the next scheduled time. It's important not to take more than one dose at a time to make up for a missed tablet.

Before starting Biktarvy, patients may need testing for hepatitis B virus since stopping the medication may cause severe liver problems in people with HBV infection.

Ingredients

The active ingredients in Biktarvy are bictegravir sodium, emtricitabine, and tenofovir alafenamide fumarate.

Cautions

Before using this medication, you may want to consult a healthcare provider about the following:

• Any existing health conditions
• Any allergies
• A list of all medications currently being taken

Hepatitis B can worsen if treatment is stopped. If you have both HIV and hepatitis B, stopping Biktarvy may cause serious liver problems.

Drug interactions may reduce effectiveness or increase side effects. Some medications can make Biktarvy work less well or raise the risk of harmful reactions. Tell a provider about all prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements you take.

Immune reconstitution syndrome may occur. As your immune system gets stronger on treatment, it may react to hidden infections, causing inflammation. Autoimmune conditions may also develop months after starting therapy.

Kidney problems can develop or worsen. Biktarvy may affect kidney function, especially in people with existing kidney disease or those taking certain medications like NSAIDs.

Severe liver problems and lactic acidosis are rare but serious risks. Symptoms may include unusual weakness, stomach pain, trouble breathing, or yellowing of the skin or eyes.

Contraindications

Avoid taking or using this medication if any of the following apply:

• Hypersensitivity to bictegravir, emtricitabine, or tenofovir alafenamide
• Combined use with rifampin
• Combined use with dofetilide

Side Effects

Common side effects of Biktarvy include:

• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Headache

These side effects are usually mild and tend to improve after adjusting to treatment. Some people may also notice tiredness or stomach discomfort. Let a healthcare provider know if side effects bother you or do not go away.

Biktarvy can also cause serious side effects, although these are less common. These include immune reconstitution syndrome (when your recovering immune system starts fighting hidden infections), new or worsening kidney problems, lactic acidosis, and severe liver problems.

Get medical help if you develop yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, unusual muscle pain, trouble breathing, severe weakness, or ongoing stomach pain.