Bictegravir, Emtricitabine, and Tenofovir Alafenamide

Biktarvy

Biktarvy tablets are used in the treatment of HIV-1. It provides patients with an effective and convenient therapy to manage their condition. The medication works by reducing the HIV virus and improving the quality of life for people living with this virus. People can take the medication orally as directed by their doctors. It can be taken with or without food. The dosage can vary from children to adults based on the patient’s medical condition and treatment response. The medication can have several side effects and drug interactions if not consumed properly. Therefore, it is advised to take medical guidance while taking it or when you want to buy Biktarvy online from Canada.

Product Overview

Biktarvy is a combination antiretroviral medication used for treating HIV-1 infection in adults. It contains three main active ingredients: emtricitabine, bictegravir, and tenofovir alafenamide. Bictegravir is an integrase strand-transfer inhibitor (INSTI) that prevents viral DNA from merging into the genetic material of human cells. This process effectively stops the virus from replicating. Emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide are reverse transcriptase inhibitors that block the activity of reverse transcriptase (an enzyme), which the virus uses to copy itself.

This medication has two strengths: 50/200/25 mg and 30/120/15 mg. It is administered orally as a single tablet taken once daily, with or without food. Biktarvy for HIV management is suitable for both adults and children. The medication helps in reducing the amount of HIV virus in the body, making the immune system work better. This process lowers the chances of HIV complications like infections or cancer and improves body health. 

Its common side effects are nausea, diarrhea, and headache. Patients should be advised to monitor for these symptoms and report to their healthcare provider immediately. Important precautions include avoiding combination with other drugs that may interact negatively and regular monitoring of kidney and liver function. Patients are advised to stick to their healthcare provider’s guidance closely for the best outcomes in their treatment regimen. You may need to get a prescription in order to buy Biktarvy online from Canada.

What Is Biktarvy Used For?

Biktarvy tablets are prescribed for:

• Preventing HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) infection in adults and adolescents. 
• Reducing the amount of HIV in the body.
• Helping control the infection.
• Improving the immune system’s function.

What Strengths Does Biktarvy Come In?

It only comes in the form of tablets with two strengths:

• 50/200/25 mg of bictegravir, emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide respectively.
• 30/120/15 mg of bictegravir, emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide respectively.

What Is the Typical Dosage of Biktarvy?

The usual dosage of Biktarvy for HIV management may vary depending on the specifics of your health condition and the form of the medication you are prescribed. Typically, healthcare providers start with a standard dose and adjust it over time to suit your needs. It’s important to understand that the following dosage information is a general guide. If your doctor has prescribed a different dose for you, make sure you stick to their instructions and do not alter the dose on your own. Always consult your healthcare provider if you have any questions or need to make changes to your medication regimen.

Dosage for Adults and Pediatric Patients (25 Kg or More)

• Adults and pediatric patients using 50/200/25 mg tablets who have a 30 mL/min creatinine clearance or higher.
• Virologically-suppressed adults with creatinine clearance under 15 mL/min undergoing chronic hemodialysis.

Dosage for Pediatric Patients (14 Kg and Less Than 25 Kg)

• Patients using 50/200/25 mg tablets with creatinine clearance of 30 mL per min or higher. 

Dosage for Renal Impairment Patients

• Not recommended to patients with estimated creatinine clearance of 15 to under 30 mL/min.
• Not recommended to patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) with a creatinine clearance below 15 mL/min unless undergoing chronic hemodialysis.

Dosage for Hepatic Impairment Patients

• Not recommended

[Note: Remember these recommendations may vary depending on person to person. Discuss it with your doctor, and they’ll customize your dosage accordingly.]

How Should Biktarvy Be Taken?

It is advised to take Biktarvy for HIV management as prescribed by a medical expert. Adhere to your prescription label and read all the instructions. For proper usage:

• Take your medication once a day, either with food or without food. 
• If you face difficulty swallowing the tablet as a whole, split it in half and consume each part within 10 minutes.
• Talk to your doctor if you want to stop or change your medication dosage.
• Stay under the guidance of a medical professional during this treatment.
• If you are taking any iron or calcium supplements, take your medicine with food at the same time you take your supplements.
• If you are taking supplements that contain aluminum or magnesium, take your medication at least 2 hours prior or 6 hours post your supplements.  
• Dialysis patients can take their daily dose after their dialysis treatment.
• Do not go low on your medicine supply as it can increase the virus amount in your body. 
• Do not miss a dose.

[Note: Your doctor will decide the right amount for you based on your condition, following guidelines and studies on the drug. They’ll adjust it as needed over time.]

What Does Biktarvy Do to The Body?

Bictegravir (BIC), one of the components of Biktarvy, serves as an INSTI. This component targets the HIV integrase enzyme, which is essential for the viral replication process. By suppressing this enzyme, bictegravir prevents the combination of viral DNA into the DNA of the patient’s cell, effectively interfering with the virus replication. This disruption is crucial because it prevents the virus from multiplying into new cells, thereby helping to control the infection and reduce the viral amount in the patient’s body.

Additionally, Biktarvy contains two other active substances, emtricitabine (FTC) and tenofovir alafenamide (TAF), which are both NRTIs. These components mimic the natural building blocks of DNA. When the virus attempts to replicate its genetic material, it mistakenly includes these compounds in its DNA chain. This incorporation leads to premature termination of the DNA chain, thus further breaking down the replication of the virus. Together, these three drugs provide a powerful combination therapy that not only prevents the progression of HIV but also helps maintain the immune system.

What Are the Important Safety Information for Using Biktarvy?

What Are the Side Effects of Biktarvy?

Common Biktarvy Side Effects: Medications like Biktarvy can cause some side effects. Most of these are temporary and usually go away after a few days or weeks. However, if they last longer, become bothersome, or feel more intense, it’s important to contact your doctor or pharmacist to ensure your safety. Here are some common side effects you may experience with Biktarvy:

• Diarrhea: This means having loose or frequent stools. It’s a common side effect and usually goes away with time. Stay hydrated and talk to your doctor if it persists.
• Skin rash: You might notice some redness or bumps on your skin. If the rash doesn’t go away or worsens, be sure to consult with your healthcare provider.
• Dizziness: Feeling lightheaded or unsteady can occur. If this happens, try to rest and avoid sudden movements. Let your doctor know if the dizziness is frequent or severe.
• Fatigue: You may feel unusually tired or lacking energy. This is common, especially when starting a new medication. Rest is important, but let your doctor know if fatigue becomes too much to handle.
• Nausea: Feeling queasy or like you might throw up is another common side effect. Try taking the medication with food to help reduce this feeling, but if it continues, consult your healthcare provider.
• Headache: You might experience mild to moderate headaches. Drinking plenty of water, resting, and over-the-counter pain relief can help, but check with your doctor if headaches become persistent.
• Sleeping troubles: Difficulty sleeping, whether falling asleep or staying asleep, is something some people face. If sleep issues continue, talk to your doctor for guidance.

Serious Biktarvy Side Effects: While Biktarvy is effective for treating HIV, it can lead to some serious side effects. If you experience any of the following while taking Biktarvy, it’s important to contact your doctor immediately. If any of these side effects seem life-threatening or if you feel you are having a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or 911 right away. Here are some serious side effects to watch for:

• Kidney problems, including kidney failure: Biktarvy for long-term HIV control can affect your kidneys. Symptoms might include swelling in your legs or ankles, trouble urinating, or feeling very tired. If you notice these signs, contact your doctor right away.
• Liver problems: Your liver might be affected by Biktarvy, causing symptoms like yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, or pain in the upper right side of your abdomen. If you experience any of these, see your doctor immediately.
• Increased level of lactic acid: Lactic acidosis is a condition where there’s too much lactic acid in the blood, which can be dangerous. Symptoms include deep, rapid breathing, feeling weak or tired, or having stomach pain. If you experience these symptoms, seek immediate medical help.
• Immune reconstitution syndrome: This is when your immune system starts to recover from HIV treatment and may cause symptoms like fever, difficulty breathing, or swollen lymph nodes. While this can be a sign of improvement, it’s important to talk to your doctor if you notice these symptoms.
• Depression: Some people may experience feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or loss of interest in activities they usually enjoy. If you notice these signs, it’s crucial to speak with your doctor to address your mental health and consider alternative treatment options if necessary.

If you experience any of these serious side effects, don’t wait—seek medical help right away to ensure your safety and well-being.

[Note: This list may not cover all possible side effects. Always consult with your healthcare giver for medical advice about side effects.]

Are There Any Warnings for Using Biktarvy?

Before starting your treatment or buying affordable Biktarvy for HIV management, it’s important to talk to your doctor about the possible benefits and risks. Here are some key warnings to keep in mind:

• Adverse Reactions to Drug Interactions: Combining Biktarvy with several other drugs can result in significant drug interactions. These effects can reduce the effectiveness of HIV medication, leading to drug resistance. In addition, the patient might experience serious side effects due to the increased level of the concurrent medications. Therefore, always assess the risk of drug interactions before and during your HIV treatment.
• Immune Reconstitution Inflammatory Syndrome: There have been reports of IRIS in patients taking combination antiretroviral therapy. During the starting stage of this treatment, people with responsive immune systems may develop an inflammatory reaction to opportunistic infections (Mycobacterium avium infections, cytomegalovirus, Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia, or tuberculosis). This may require additional diagnostic and therapeutic treatments. 
• Risk of Renal Impairment: Post-marketing reports have indicated renal impairment cases, including acute renal failure and proximal renal tubulopathy, associated with products containing tenofovir alafenamide (TAF). Although these reports often involve other contributing factors, these conditions could also expose patients to adverse effects related to tenofovir. Biktarvy is not advised for patients with severe renal impairment, those not on chronic hemodialysis, or those without a history of antiretroviral treatment and on chronic hemodialysis. Discontinue Biktarvy if significant renal dysfunction or Fanconi syndrome develops.
• Lactic Acidosis and Severe Hepatomegaly with Steatosis: Instances of lactic acidosis and serious hepatomegaly with steatosis, consisting of fatal events, have been observed with the use of nucleoside analogs, including emtricitabine and tenofovir DF, components of Biktarvy, both alone and in combination. Discontinue this medication if a patient develops clinical or laboratory signs indicative of lactic acidosis or severe hepatotoxicity, which may include enlarged liver and fat accumulation even without significant liver enzyme elevation.

Does Biktarvy Have a Black Box Warning?

Biktarvy has a black box warning, which is the most serious warning given by the FDA for medications. This warning is to highlight the potential risks or serious side effects linked with its use. Here are the main points of the black box warning for Biktarvy:

• Severe acute worsening symptoms of hepatitis B have been noticed in patients coinfected with HIV-1 and HBV who stopped the medications containing emtricitabine (FTC) and/or tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF).
• Frequently check hepatic function through both physical assessments and laboratory tests for several months for patients coinfected with HIV-1 and HBV and those who discontinued Biktarvy.
• If required, initiate therapy for anti-hepatitis B, especially for people suffering from advanced liver disease. 

What Precautions Should Be Taken When Taking Biktarvy?

Before starting Biktarvy treatment, it’s important to talk to your doctor about all the risks and benefits. Here are some precautions to keep in mind before using Biktarvy for long-term HIV control:

• If you have allergic reactions to Biktarvy 50mg/200mg/25mg tablets or if you have other allergies, tell your medical professional or pharmacist. This medication contains certain inactive ingredients that can lead to allergies. 
• Before taking this medication, consult with a healthcare provider about your medical history if you are a patient who has liver problems (hepatitis B, hepatitis C, cirrhosis), kidney or alcohol issues.
• If you are undergoing any medical surgery or procedure, tell your dentist or doctor about every drug you are taking (prescription, non-prescription, or herbal products).
• If you are pregnant, take the prescribed medication only when needed, as the treatment lowers the risk of transmitting the virus to the infants. 
• Remember to discuss every risk and benefit with your medical professional.
• For lactating women, take medical guidance as the drugs can pass into the breast milk, which may transmit HIV infection to the baby. So, seek medical assistance before breastfeeding.

What Are the Contraindications for Biktarvy?

Biktarvy has certain situations where it should not be used, as it could lead to serious side effects or cause harmful interactions. Here are the key reasons why Biktarvy may not be suitable for some people:

• Dofetilide: Avoid co-administration with Biktarvy. Dofetilide levels may increase when taken with this medication, potentially causing serious or life-threatening events.
• Rifampin: It can reduce bictegravir levels, leading to decreased effectiveness of Biktarvy and possible resistance development.
• St. John’s Wort: It reduces the effectiveness of bictegravir, leading to the increased risk of therapeutic failure and resistance development.

What If I Miss a Dose of Biktarvy?

Here’s what you can do when you skip or miss a dose of Biktarvy for long-term HIV control:

• If you forget to take a dose of Biktarvy, take the skipped dose whenever you remember it. 
• At the time of your next dose, follow your dosage schedule as usual.
• Do not take more than one dose simultaneously to cover the missed dose.

[Note: If you have missed a medication dose and are unsure when to take the next one, immediately consult your doctor or pharmacist.]

What Happens If You Take Too Much of Biktarvy?

There has been no data on an overdose of Biktarvy in patients. In case someone took their medication in exceeding amounts, monitor them for any signs of toxicity. Additionally, hemodialysis treatments also remove the FTC dose within 3 hours of dialysis duration.  

[Note: If you consumed more than the recommended dose, get medical help right away or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.]

How Do You Store Biktarvy?

To store your medication properly especially when you buy Biktarvy online, you should follow the mentioned instructions below:

• Ensure that the tablet bottles are tightly closed with a child-resistant closure. 
• Do not try to remove the desiccant packet. 
• Always store the bottle below 30 °C (86 °F).
• If it is a blister pack, check if the pack is sealed with a child-resistant laminated foil.
• Keep the pack at 25 °C (77 °F). 
• Temperature can go a bit higher or lower, but it should stay between 15°C and 30°C.
• Store the medicine in its original packing, not in any other containers.
• Check the packaging or take medical guidance for detailed information.
• Discard the medication when it is past its usage period.

[Note: Discuss with your healthcare professional about the proper disposal of any unused medicine and any questions you may have regarding its storage.]

What Medicines Should Not Be Taken with Biktarvy?

Biktarvy can interact with a variety of other medications and substances. Some of these interactions can affect how well Biktarvy works or increase the risk of side effects. It’s important to avoid taking certain drugs while using Biktarvy. Here’s a list of medications and substances to be cautious about:

• Antiarrhythmics: Dofetilide should not be taken with Biktarvy. This drug affects your heart rhythm, and combining it with Biktarvy could lead to dangerous interactions.
• Anticonvulsants: Medications like carbamazepine, oxcarbazepine, phenobarbital, and phenytoin may reduce the effectiveness of Biktarvy. These drugs are used to treat seizures, but they can interfere with how well Biktarvy works in your body.
• Antimycobacterials: Rifampin should not be taken with Biktarvy, as it can reduce the effectiveness of Biktarvy. Rifabutin and rifapentine should only be taken with Biktarvy if your doctor specifically recommends it.
• Metformin: If you are taking metformin (a medication for diabetes) along with Biktarvy, your doctor will need to assess the benefits and risks of using both drugs together. Close monitoring is required to ensure there are no negative effects.
• Certain antibiotics: Rifampin, rifabutin, and rifapentine are antibiotics that can reduce Biktarvy’s effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects. These should be used with caution when taking Biktarvy.
• Certain antivirals: Acyclovir, valacyclovir, and valganciclovir are antiviral drugs that can increase the risk of side effects when used with Biktarvy. Talk to your doctor if you’re using any of these medications.
• Drugs that affect kidney function: Medications like acyclovir, cidofovir, ganciclovir, valacyclovir, valganciclovir, aminoglycosides, and high-dose or multiple NSAIDs (anti-inflammatory drugs) can affect your kidneys and may increase the risk of side effects when taken with Biktarvy.

What Are the Other Interactions of Biktarvy?

In addition to medications, Biktarvy for long-term HIV control can interact with certain foods, drinks, herbs, or dietary supplements. It’s important to tell your healthcare provider about everything you are taking, including:

• Beverages: Certain drinks, such as alcohol, can affect how Biktarvy works. Drinking alcohol while on Biktarvy may increase the risk of side effects or interfere with your treatment. It’s important to discuss alcohol use with your doctor to ensure it’s safe for you.
• Foods: Some foods may change how Biktarvy is absorbed or processed in your body. Your healthcare provider can give you advice on whether you need to avoid certain foods or make adjustments to your diet.
• Herbs and dietary supplements: Herbal products, like St. John’s Wort, can interfere with how Biktarvy works by reducing its effectiveness. Similarly, some dietary supplements might affect how well your body absorbs the medication. Always tell your doctor about any herbal or over-the-counter supplements you’re taking.
• Smoking: Smoking may also impact how Biktarvy works in your body. It can affect the liver, which helps process medications like Biktarvy. If you smoke, make sure your doctor knows so they can monitor any possible effects on your treatment.
• Illegal drugs: Using recreational or illegal drugs can interfere with the effectiveness of Biktarvy and increase the risk of harmful side effects. If you use any illegal substances, it’s crucial to talk to your healthcare provider so they can help adjust your treatment plan.

[Note: This isn’t a complete list, and there could be other drugs that interact with Biktarvy. Tell your doctor about any prescription, over-the-counter medicines, and herbal products you’re taking.]

What Are the Alternatives to Biktarvy?

If you’re using Biktarvy for HIV treatment but feel it may not be the right fit for you or it’s not giving you the results you expected, there are other treatment options available. Many people consider alternatives to Biktarvy if they experience side effects or if the medication doesn’t fully meet their needs.

Before switching, it’s important to talk to your doctor. They will consider factors like your health, other medications you might be taking, and any specific medical conditions to help recommend the best option for you. Some common alternatives to Biktarvy include:

• Triumeq
• Dovato
• Genvoya
• Stribild
• Cabenuva
• Aptivus 
• Edurant 
• Emtriva 
• Epivir 
• Fuzeon 
• Intelence 
• Isentress 
• Pifeltro 
• Cimduo
• Complera
• Delstrigo 
• Descovy 
• Evotaz 
• Kaletra

[Note: Your doctor will choose what’s best for you. Don’t use any of these alternative medications without consulting your healthcare provider. Taking them by yourself may cause serious side effects.]

Biktarvy Coupons & Cost

Biktarvy, a widely prescribed medication for HIV treatment, can be expensive in the U.S., with monthly costs often reaching thousands of dollars without insurance. However, you can save significantly by choosing to buy Biktarvy online from Canada through Polar Bear Meds. We offer Biktarvy at a fraction of the U.S. retail price, ensuring that you have access to affordable healthcare. By purchasing from us, U.S. residents can enjoy the same high-quality medication at a lower cost, making treatment more accessible. Don’t forget to use the Biktarvy coupon code WELCOMEPB10 for an additional 10% off your first purchase. Plus, take advantage of our referral program, where you can save up to $200 on future orders. Trust Polar Bear Meds to help you manage your healthcare expenses effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it better to take Biktarvy in the morning or at night?

You can take Biktarvy either in the morning or at night, depending on what fits best into your routine. The most important thing is to take it consistently at the same time each day. There’s no specific time of day that’s better for everyone, so choose what works for you.

Can you take Tylenol while using Biktarvy?

Biktarvy for long-term HIV control doesn’t have a known interaction with Tylenol (acetaminophen). However, taking large amounts of acetaminophen can harm the liver, and Biktarvy may also affect liver function. Always check with your doctor for the safest dosage of Tylenol while taking Biktarvy.

What should I know about Biktarvy?

Biktarvy is a complete HIV treatment that combines three effective medicines into one pill, taken once daily with or without food. It’s important to note that Biktarvy does not cure HIV or AIDS, but it helps manage the virus. Do not take it with other HIV treatments.

How quickly does Biktarvy work?

Biktarvy works fast to lower the HIV virus in your blood. Many patients can achieve undetectable HIV levels in 8 to 24 weeks if they take the medication as prescribed.

Do you have to take Biktarvy forever?

Yes, Biktarvy is a long-term treatment for HIV. Once started, it’s usually taken indefinitely to manage HIV-1 infection, providing both initial and long-term treatment.

Can Biktarvy cause sleep disturbances?

While not a serious complication, the medication can cause sleep disturbances like insomnia or changes in sleep patterns after starting treatment with Biktarvy. If the situation worsens, patients are advised to communicate with their healthcare providers, as good sleep is crucial for overall health. 

Is Biktarvy effective for all patients?

The medication is highly effective for many patients suffering from HIV-1. However, its effectiveness depends on various factors. These include the presence of pre-existing drug resistance, other health conditions, and adherence to the medication regimen. However, there are patients with certain genetic mutations who are not advised of this medication due to their resistance to the drug components. Patients need to work closely with their doctors to monitor their treatment response and make any necessary adjustments.

Can I use Biktarvy for PrEP?

No, you can not use Biktarvy as PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis). PrEP usually involves a combination of two anti-HIV components, namely tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, and emtricitabine, used for the prevention of HIV. On the other hand, Biktarvy is a combination of three ingredients, bictegravir, emtricitabine, and tenofovir alafenamide, that is strictly for HIV treatment.

For how long can one miss out on their Biktarvy dose?

If you have missed a dose for less than 18 hours from your usual dosing time, take the skipped dose as soon as possible. However, do not take the missed dose if the duration has been more than 18 hours. Instead, wait until your next scheduled dose. It’s important to follow this guidance to maintain the effectiveness of your treatment regimen. If you have any concerns about missed doses, it’s best to ask your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

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