Bictegravir/Emtricitabine/Tenofovir Alafenamide Oral Tablet (BICTEGRAVIR/EMTRICITABINE/TENOFOVIR ALAFENAMIDE - ORAL)

Bictegravir/Emtricitabine/Tenofovir Alafenamide Oral Tablet (BICTEGRAVIR/EMTRICITABINE/TENOFOVIR ALAFENAMIDE - ORAL)

For HIV.

Brand Name(s): Biktarvy

Generic Name: Bictegravir/Emtricitabine/Tenofovir Alafenamide

Instructions

You may break or cut the pill if necessary.

Keep the medicine in its original container.

This medicine may be taken with or without food.

This medicine will work best if you take it at about the same time every day.

Store at room temperature away from heat, light, and moisture. Do not keep in the bathroom.

Keep the desiccant (drying) packet in the bottle and keep the bottle closed tightly.

This medicine does not stop the spread of viruses that are passed through the blood or during sex.

Do not share needles or other personal objects such as shavers or toothbrushes.

If you take antacids containing aluminum or magnesium, take this medicine at least 2 hours before or 6 hours after the antacids.

It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.

If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal schedule. Do not take 2 doses at one time.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.

This medicine is associated with a rare, but serious problem of the liver. Speak to your doctor about the early signs of liver problems and the benefits and risks of using this medicine.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Use condoms to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted diseases.

Contact your doctor if you notice a change in the amount or darkening of your urine.

Contact your doctor if you develop any signs of a new infection such as fever, cough, sore throat, or chills.

Tell the doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant, planning to be pregnant, or breastfeeding.

This medicine passes into breast milk. Because breast milk may transmit HIV, ask your doctor before breastfeeding.

Do not take St. John's wort while on this medicine.

Always carry an ID card or wear a medical alert bracelet indicating your medical condition.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Always refill this medicine before it runs out.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • diarrhea
  • headaches
  • nausea

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • wheezing or difficulty breathing
  • cough that does not go away
  • dizziness
  • fever
  • flu-like symptoms
  • numbness or tingling in hands and feet
  • severe or persistent headache
  • fast or irregular heart beats
  • irritability
  • signs of kidney damage (such as change in urine color or bubbly urine)
  • signs of liver damage (such as yellowing of eye or skin, dark urine, or unusual tiredness)
  • loss of movement anywhere on the body
  • muscle pain or weakness
  • nervousness
  • shortness of breath
  • difficulty speaking
  • difficulty swallowing
  • swelling in the neck or throat
  • difficulty adjusting to changes in temperature
  • blurring or changes of vision
  • unexpected or extreme weight loss

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.