What is Biktarvy?
Biktarvy is a complete, single-tablet prescription medication used to treat Human Immunodeficiency Virus-1 (HIV-1), the virus that causes AIDS. It functions as a full antiretroviral therapy (HAART) regimen, meaning most patients do not need to take any other HIV medications alongside it. The tablet contains a combination of three active ingredients: bictegravir (50mg), emtricitabine (200mg), and tenofovir alafenamide (25mg), which work together to control the virus.
How does Biktarvy work?
Biktarvy works by combining three active ingredients to block enzymes that the HIV-1 virus needs to multiply, thereby reducing the amount of the virus in your body (viral load). Bictegravir is an integrase strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI) that stops the virus from inserting its DNA into the DNA of your healthy immune cells. Emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide are nucleoside/nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs), which prevent the virus from converting its RNA into DNA, another crucial step for its replication. This combined attack helps maintain a low viral load and allows the immune system to recover.
Who is Biktarvy for?
Biktarvy is intended for adults and children weighing at least 14 kg who are infected with HIV-1. It is often prescribed for patients who are starting HIV-1 treatment for the first time (treatment-naive). It can also be used to replace a current antiretroviral regimen for individuals who have an undetectable viral load (less than 50 copies/mL) for at least three months, have been on a stable regimen, and have no history of treatment failure or known resistance to Biktarvy’s components.
Dosage and administration
The standard dosage for Biktarvy is one tablet taken orally once per day, with or without food. It is crucial to take the tablet at approximately the same time each day to maintain consistent levels of the medication in your blood. If you miss a dose but remember within 18 hours of the usual time, take it as soon as you remember. If more than 18 hours have passed, skip the missed dose and take the next one at your regular time. Do not take two doses at once to make up for a missed one. Do not stop taking Biktarvy without consulting your healthcare provider, as this can cause the virus to multiply rapidly.
Side effects
Like all medications, Biktarvy can cause side effects, with the most common being diarrhea, nausea, and headache. Many users experience mild to moderate side effects that may lessen over time. However, it’s important to be aware of all potential reactions. The most common side effects include:
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Abnormal dreams
- Dizziness
Biktarvy carries a boxed warning for the potential worsening of Hepatitis B infection. Patients with both HIV and Hepatitis B should be closely monitored by their doctor after stopping the medication. More serious, though less common, side effects can include kidney problems, liver issues, and lactic acidosis. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience unusual muscle pain, weakness, stomach pain with nausea, or yellowing of the skin or eyes.
Why buy from IsraelPharm?
IsraelPharm provides a reliable and cost-effective way to access Biktarvy and other essential medications from the convenience of your home. We are staffed by licensed pharmacists who ensure every prescription is reviewed for safety and accuracy. By sourcing medications from a regulated global supply chain, we can offer competitive prices without compromising on quality or authenticity. We are committed to patient privacy, providing discreet packaging and secure, direct-to-doorstep delivery, making managing your health simpler and more affordable.
This medication may cause side effects. Consult your doctor for medical advice about side effects. The most common side effects of Biktarvy include:
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Abnormal dreams
- Indigestion and flatulence
- Rash or itching
Serious side effects can occur, including new or worsening kidney problems, severe liver problems, and changes in your immune system (Immune Reconstitution Syndrome). This drug has a boxed warning for post-treatment acute exacerbation of hepatitis B. Do not stop taking Biktarvy without first talking to your healthcare provider.
Biktarvy is a prescription medication indicated for the treatment of Human Immunodeficiency Virus-1 (HIV-1) infection in adults and pediatric patients weighing at least 14 kg. It is a complete regimen for patients new to HIV treatment or as a replacement for a current stable antiretroviral regimen for those with a suppressed viral load.