Side Effects of Emtricitabine and Tenofovir

Potential side effects of emtricitabine and tenofovir include drowsiness, vomiting, and sinus infection. The most common side effects that were reported in clinical studies are dizziness, nausea, and diarrhea. While most emtricitabine and tenofovir side effects appear to be mild, some are potentially serious and may require immediate medical attention, including decreased bone density, kidney problems, and depression.

Side Effects of Emtricitabine and Tenofovir: An Introduction

As with any medicine, side effects are possible with emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (Truvada®); however, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider.
 
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with emtricitabine and tenofovir. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of emtricitabine and tenofovir side effects with you.)
 

Side Effects of Emtricitabine and Tenofovir to Report

Some side effects with emtricitabine and tenofovir, while occurring infrequently, are potentially serious and should be reported immediately to your healthcare provider. These include but are not limited to:
 
 
    • Feeling tired or weak
    • Muscle pain
    • Trouble breathing
    • Stomach pain
    • Feeling cold
    • Cold or blue hands and feet
    • Dizziness or lightheadedness
    • A slow or irregular heartbeat
    • Persistent nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain
    • Shortness of breath
    • An enlarged or tender liver
    • Weight loss
 
  • Changes in the distribution of fat on your body (such as a "buffalo hump")
  • Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
 
    • A rash
    • Hives
    • Itching
    • Swelling of the mouth or throat
    • Wheezing
    • Difficulty breathing.
 

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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;
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