Tenofovir is a backbone drug used for HIV and chronic hepatitis B. You’ll see it listed as tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) or tenofovir alafenamide (TAF). Both stop virus replication, but they differ in dosing and side effects. TDF is usually 300 mg once daily. TAF comes in lower doses (often 10–25 mg in combo pills) and tends to be gentler on kidneys and bones.
For HIV, tenofovir appears in combination tablets—Truvada (emtricitabine/TDF) and Descovy (emtricitabine/TAF) are common examples. These combos are used for treatment and prevention (PrEP) in the right patients. For hepatitis B, TDF (Viread) and TAF (Vemlidy) are approved options to control the virus long term. If you have hepatitis B, never stop tenofovir suddenly; stopping can trigger a serious flare of the infection.
What you’ll need before starting: a baseline kidney check (creatinine/eGFR), and sometimes a bone density check if you have risk factors. After you start, expect follow-up blood tests—usually kidney labs at 1–3 months, then every 3–6 months depending on results.
Common side effects are mild: nausea, headache, or trouble sleeping for some people. Bigger concerns are kidney strain and lower bone mineral density—TDF carries more risk here than TAF. Watch for signs like unusual tiredness, muscle weakness, or bone pain, and report them to your clinician.
Drug interactions matter. Avoid combining tenofovir with other nephrotoxic drugs when possible (for example, high-dose NSAIDs, certain antibiotics). TAF levels drop with strong P‑glycoprotein inducers—rifampin, carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, and St. John’s wort can make it less effective. Also, older combinations with didanosine caused problems in the past—doctors usually avoid that pairing now.
If you’re pregnant or planning pregnancy, tell your doctor. TDF has a strong safety record in pregnancy and is often used, but the best choice depends on your full health picture and viral load.
Want tips for getting tenofovir or refills online? Always use a licensed pharmacy and keep a valid prescription. Check pharmacy reviews and look for accreditation seals. Don’t buy from sites that send medication without asking for a prescription. If price is an issue, ask your provider about generic options or discount programs—many pharmacies offer savings apps or coupons.
If you have questions about dosing, side effects, or stopping treatment, talk to a clinician familiar with HIV or hepatitis B. Practical monitoring and clear communication with your healthcare team make tenofovir safe and effective for most people.
In my recent deep dive into the topic of Tenofovir and its impact on bone health, I've found that while this medication is highly effective in treating HIV and hepatitis B, it may come with some risks. Particularly, there's concern about Tenofovir's potential to decrease bone density, leading to an increased risk of fractures. However, it's crucial to balance these risks with the significant benefits Tenofovir brings in managing viral infections. The challenge for physicians is to continuously monitor bone health in patients on this treatment. As a patient or a caregiver, it's important to stay informed about these potential side effects and discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.