Emtricitabine (brand name: Emtriva) is a type of antiretroviral drug called a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) used to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, which causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Emtricitabine is not a cure for HIV or AIDS.
Emtricitabine helps decrease the amount of HIV in the body so the immune system works more efficiently, lowering the risk of developing complications from HIV such as new infections or cancer, and improving the quality of life for patients.
- To decrease the risk of spreading HIV disease to others, continue to take all HIV medications exactly as prescribed.
- Use an effective barrier method such as latex or polyurethane condoms or dental dams during sexual activity as directed by your doctor.
- Do not share personal items such as needles, syringes, toothbrushes, and razors that may have come into contact with blood or other body fluids.
Emtricitabine is not FDA approved to treat chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection.
What Are Side Effects of Emtricitabine?
Side effects of emtricitabine include:
- Headache
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Depression
- Trouble sleeping (insomnia)
- Abnormal dreams
- Rash
- Abdominal pain
- Weakness/lethargy
- Increased cough
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Increased creatine kinase (CK)
- Nerve inflammation/pain
- Numbness and tingling
- Indigestion/heartburn
- Vomiting
- Increased triglycerides
- Muscle pain
- Darkening skin color on palms of hands and soles of feet (skin hyperpigmentation), especially in children
What Other Drugs Interact with Emtricitabine?
Emtricitabine may interact with other medications such as:
- Elvitegravir/cobicistat/emtricitabine/tenofovir DF
- Lamivudine
- Cabotegravir
Tell your doctor about all medications and supplements you use.
Can Emtricitabine Be Used During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding?
During pregnancy, emtricitabine should be used only when prescribed. There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to emtricitabine during pregnancy. HIV medicines are usually given to pregnant women with HIV because treatment decreases the risk of HIV transmission to the baby. Emtricitabine may be part of that treatment. Consult your doctor.
It is unknown if emtricitabine passes into breast milk. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends HIV-infected mothers not breastfeed to avoid risking postnatal transmission of HIV.
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https://reference.medscape.com/drug/emtriva-emtricitabine-342612