Emtriva (other name Trustiva)

Common use

Trustiva tablets is primarily used in managing human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection in adults. It's a combination medicine, belonging to the class of antiretroviral medications. Apart from this main use, this medicine is also employed to suppress viral replication and prevent the progression of HIV disease. While it does not cure HIV, it plays a significant role in controlling the virus and improving the patient's quality of life.

Dosage and direction

Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. You can take it with or without food, based on your preference. Do not crush or chew the tablet. Take the medicine around bedtime, as recommended. It's crucial not to stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor first.

Precautions

Liver disease: If you have pre-existing liver disease or co-infected with hepatitis B, take caution, as Trustiva tablet could potentially exacerbate your condition.
Kidney disease: People with kidney problems should use Trustiva cautiously, as it might worsen their condition.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Efavirenz in Trustiva tablet may cause harm to the foetus, so pregnant women should consult their doctor before taking this medicine. Breastfeeding is not recommended while taking Trustiva due to the risk of HIV-1 transmission through milk.

Contraindications

If you are allergic to any components of Trustiva tablets, do not take it. Discuss any known allergies with your doctor before starting this medicine.
Trustiva tablets combination is contraindicated in patients with moderate to severe renal impairment or end-stage kidney disease requiring dialysis. It is also contraindicated in patients with severe hepatic impairment.

Possible side effect

Trustiva tablets may have the following common side effects: Nausea; Vomiting; Diarrhea; Headache; Dizziness; Fatigue; Insomnia; Skin rash; Abnormal dreams; Depression.

Drug interaction

Antiretroviral medications: The effectiveness of Trustiva tablets may be reduced when taken with other antiretroviral medicines like ritonavir.
Anticonvulsants: Medicines like phenytoin and carbamazepine could reduce the blood levels of efavirenz, one of the components in Trustiva.
Antimycobacterials: Rifampin and rifabutin can decrease the efficacy of Trustiva tablets by reducing the blood levels of its ingredients.
Antifungals: Itraconazole and ketoconazole may increase the risk of side effects from Trustiva.
Herbal products: St. John's wort can reduce the effectiveness of Trustiva by decreasing the blood levels of its components.

Missed dose

If you forgot to take Trustiva tablet at the scheduled time, take it as soon as you recall. But if it's nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular dosage schedule. Don't increase your dosage without consulting your doctor.

Overdose

Overdosing on Trustiva tablets may lead to common side effects like nausea, diarrhea, headache, and fatigue becoming more severe. If you think you've taken too much, let your doctor know.

Storage

Always store Trustiva tablets at room temperature, ideally below 30°C. Keep it in the original container to protect it from light and moisture. Don't expose it to excessive heat or cold. Remember to keep this medicine out of reach of children.