Tenofovir alafenamide

Tenofovir alafenamide (TAF) is an antiretroviral medication used to treat and prevent HIV/AIDS and to treat chronic hepatitis B. It is generally recommended for use with other antiretrovirals. It is often included in fixed-dose combinations.

Etymology

The name "Tenofovir alafenamide" is derived from its chemical structure. "Tenofovir" is the name of the active ingredient, and "alafenamide" refers to the alanine phenylalanine amide prodrug that improves the delivery of tenofovir to target cells.

Medical Uses

Tenofovir alafenamide is used in combination with other antiretroviral agents for the treatment of HIV-1 infection in adults and pediatric patients. It is also used for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B in adults.

Pharmacology

Tenofovir alafenamide is a prodrug of tenofovir, an analogue of adenosine 5'-monophosphate. It works by inhibiting the action of the viral enzyme reverse transcriptase, preventing the virus from multiplying in the body.

Side Effects

Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, headache, fatigue, and abdominal pain. Serious side effects may include kidney problems, lactic acidosis, and worsening hepatitis B among those previously infected.

History

Tenofovir alafenamide was approved for medical use in the United States in 2016. It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines, the safest and most effective medicines needed in a health system.

See Also

• Antiretroviral therapy
• HIV/AIDS
• Chronic hepatitis B

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