Efavirenz/Emtricitabine/Tenofovir (Efavirenz/Emtricitabine/Tenofovir)

Do’s

• Take it by mouth on an empty stomach, usually once daily at bedtime. This helps minimize side effects.
• Follow your healthcare provider's instructions precisely
• regarding dosage and frequency.
• Take it consistently, ideally at the same time every day.
• Continue taking it as prescribed, even if you feel well. Stopping or altering the dosage can worsen your condition.
• Maintain open communication with your healthcare provider. Discuss any side effects or questions you may have.

Don'ts

• Don't skip doses or take it more often than prescribed.
• Don't stop taking it without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Don't take it with food as it reduces its effectiveness.
• Don't share your medication with others.
• Don't hesitate to talk to your healthcare provider about any concerns you have.

Common Side Effects:

• Changes in the shape or location of body fat, especially in the arms, legs, face, neck, breasts, and waist
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Depression
• Insomnia
• Abnormal dreams
• Rash
• Trouble sleeping
• Sleepiness
• Unsteadiness

Serious Side Effects:

• Signs of a new infection, such as fever, night sweats, swollen glands, cold sores, cough, wheezing, diarrhea, or weight loss
• Trouble speaking or swallowing, problems with balance or eye movement, weakness, or prickly feeling
• Swelling in the neck or throat (enlarged thyroid)
• Menstrual changes
• Impotence
• High blood lactate levels
• Psychiatric symptoms
• Enlargement of the liver
• Suicidal thoughts, paranoia, and mood changes

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Efavirenz emtricitabine tenofovir,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Inform your healthcare provider if you have allergies to any ingredients in efavirenz/emtricitabine/tenofovir.

Discuss your medical history with your healthcare provider before using this medication, especially regarding:

• Kidney problems
• Liver problems (hepatitis B or C, cirrhosis)
• Mental/mood problems (depression, suicidal thoughts, psychosis)
• Drug/substance/alcohol abuse
• Seizures
• High cholesterol/triglyceride levels
• Bone problems (bone disease, osteoporosis, weak/broken bones)
• Pancreatitis

Efavirenz/emtricitabine/tenofovir may cause irregular heartbeat (QT prolongation). This is a serious but rare side effect.

The risk increases with certain medical conditions or medications. Inform your healthcare provider about any relevant conditions or medications you take.

Low blood potassium or magnesium levels can also increase the risk.

This medication may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or trouble concentrating. Avoid activities requiring alertness (driving, operating machinery) until you feel normal.

Avoid alcohol and marijuana (cannabis) as they can worsen these effects.

Inform your healthcare provider or dentist about all medications you use before surgery.

Children taking this medication may experience a more common and serious rash. Report any rash immediately.

Older adults may be more susceptible to QT prolongation with efavirenz/emtricitabine/tenofovir.

Efavirenz/emtricitabine/tenofovir should only be used during pregnancy if absolutely necessary. Discuss risks and benefits with your healthcare provider.

This medication passes into breast milk. Consult your healthcare provider about the risks of breastfeeding while using it.

If you have hepatitis B, stopping this medication might worsen your symptoms. Discuss with your healthcare provider before stopping treatment.

Your healthcare provider will monitor your liver function after stopping efavirenz/emtricitabine/tenofovir.