Tenofovir is a medication commonly used in HIV "cocktails" for the treatment of HIV and AIDS. This eMedTV Web page describes how the drug works, explains what you should know before starting treatment, and offers dosing information for the product.
Potential side effects of tenofovir include vomiting, weight loss, and back pain. This eMedTV Web page lists other possible side effects, including serious ones that may require medical attention (such as anxiety, depression, or allergic reactions).
Tenofovir is used to prevent HIV from multiplying and spreading to uninfected cells in the body. This eMedTV article further explains how the drug works for the treatment of HIV and AIDS, and discusses possible off-label tenofovir uses.
For most people, tenofovir dosing starts at 300 mg once daily. As this section of the eMedTV library explains, people with kidney disease may need to take the medication less frequently, such as once or twice a week instead of once daily.
Acyclovir, valacyclovir, and ganciclovir may cause drug interactions with tenofovir. This page from the eMedTV archives lists other medications that may interact with tenofovir and describes the problems that may develop if these interactions occur.
Tenofovir can decrease bone density, which increases the risk of osteoporosis and broken bones. This eMedTV page lists more precautions and warnings with tenofovir, including additional side effects and information on who should not take the drug.
