Introduction: Biktarvy side effects. Biktarvy is a brand-name prescription for treating human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). It combines three different medicines into a single pill: emtricitabine and tenofovir. These medications work in a combined form to reduce the HIV viral load over time. It’s not a cure for HIV, but it may assist in managing the infection.
It comes in tablet form and is given as a three-in-one medication. Biktarvy is a newer drug that has been treating HIV-1 since 2018. There is limited data on its long-term effectiveness. The most common side effects are diarrhea and headache. More severe side effects include lactic acidosis and liver toxicity.
Biktarvy is a prescription which has used to treat HIV. It has standard, less common, and severe side effects. It includes fatigue, dizziness, diarrhea, and allergic reactions. You can prevent yourself from bitterly by telling your doctor on time. Side effects of its change from person to person.
What is Biktarvy?
Biktarvy is a combination medication used to treat HIV-1 infection in pediatric patients. This medication was approved by the Drug Administration (FDA) in early 2018. It has become a fighter against HIV. Biktarvy is unique because it combines three different drugs into a single tablet.
How Does Biktarvy Work?
Biktarvy’s effectiveness lies in its ability to focus on many stages of the HIV life cycle. With a combination of three drugs, it offers a potent treatment option for people living with HIV.
Common Side Effects of Biktarvy
It’s crucial to remember that only some people who take Biktarvy will experience side effects. Here are some of the common side effects related to Biktarvy:
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Abnormal dreams
- Dizziness
- Insomnia
- Vomiting
- Indigestion
- Rash
- Depression
Mild side effects of Biktarvy
Mild side effects of Biktarvy can include:
Headache: Headaches are a common and mild side effect.
Nausea: Some individuals may experience mild nausea, particularly when taking Biktarvy. Taking it with food can help ease this.
Diarrhea: Diarrhea is another possible side effect, but it is usually not severe.
Fatigue: Feeling tired or fatigued can occur with Biktarvy use, although this is mild.
Dizziness: Some people may experience dizziness, which is often mild and transient.
Rash: Skin rashes can happen but are generally not more severe. It’s essential to report any rash to your healthcare provider.
These side effects may last for a few weeks. But if the side effects become severe, be sure to consult with your doctor.
Serious side effects of Biktarvy
While the common side effects of Biktarvy are usually mild and temporary, there are more severe side effects that require immediate medical attention. Serious side effects of Biktarvy need immediate medical advice. The medical care center warns about the following severe reactions.
Make changes in your immune system, including a severe condition called Immune reconstitution syndrome.
Kidney problems, including kidney toxicity
Increased quantity of lactic acid in the blood (lactic acidosis)
Allergic Reactions: Although rare, some individuals may face severe allergic reactions, including difficulty breathing, rash, lips, tongue, or throat, and severe dizziness.
Lactic Acidosis: This is a life-threatening condition that can happen with some HIV medications. Symptoms may include rapid breathing, muscle pain, weakness, and an upset stomach.
Liver Problems: Biktarvy can sometimes cause liver problems, which may manifest as yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, or unexplained fatigue.
Bone Loss: Some HIV medications, including tenofovir-based drugs like TAF, have been related to decreased bone density. It can increase the risk of fractures over time.
Changes in Body Fat: Accumulation of body fat, including increased fat in the upper back and neck (buffalo hump) and breasts, can occur.
It’s significant to note that the majority of individuals who experience these severe side effects are in the minority, and most people tolerate Biktarvy well.
Is joint pain side effects of Biktarvy?
No, it’s not a side effect of Biktarvy. Joint pain is not reported as a side effect of Biktarvy in clinical trials. If you face joint pain while taking Biktarvy, tell your doctor. They can suggest treatments for this side effect.
Precautions
Before taking this product, tell your doctor if you are allergic to bictegravir, emtricitabine, or other allergies. This product may contain idle ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions. Go to your doctor for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your pharmacist your medical history, particularly of liver problems (hepatitis B, hepatitis C, cirrhosis) and kidney disease.
Before having surgery, tell your dentist about all the products you use, including instruction drugs and herbal products.
During pregnancy, this medication should used when needed. Treatment can decrease the risk of passing HIV infection to your baby, and this medicine may be part of that treatment.
How should I use this medication?
The suggested dose of Bictegravir-Emtricitabine-Tenofovir is one tablet taken daily. This medication is taken with or without food.
Many things can influence the dose of medicine that a person needs, such as body weight and other medications. If your doctor suggested an amount different from the ones recorded here, do not change how you take the medication without consulting your doctor. It is crucial to take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
If you miss a dose, take it and continue with your regular schedule. If it is less than 6 hours until your next dose, skip it and continue your everyday treatment schedule. Do not take a double amount for a misplaced one. Contact your doctor for advice if you are still trying to figure out what to do after missing a dose.
Store this medicine in its original bottle at room temperature, save it from light, and keep it out of the reach of children. Do not dispose of medications in the household garbage. Ask your doctor how to dispose of medicines that no longer have expired.
Does Biktarvy cause weight gain?
It’s possible. In some studies, it was found that certain people experienced weight gain when initiating treatment. It was more happening in the first two years of treatment with antiretroviral therapy in people who hadn’t had HIV treatment.
Warnings of Biktervay
Biktarvy may not be for you with some medical conditions like drug conditions. Some other factors may also affect whether Biktarvy is the right treatment option for you. Consult with your doctor about your health history before starting this drug. Aspects are described below.
Allergic reaction. If you’ve been allergic to Biktarvy ingredients, your doctor will not suggest it. Ask them about other medicines that might be better options for you.
Liver problems. Biktarvy may also cause liver problems in some people. Tell your doctor if you have a history of liver disease. They’ll examine your liver function before you start Biktarvy. If you have serum hepatitis, your doctor will continue reading your liver function for several months after you stop taking Biktarvy.
Kidney problems. Biktarvy can cause new kidney problems. Consult with your doctor if you have a history of kidney problems. They’ll watch your kidney function before you start throughout your treatment with this drug.
Mental health conditions. Biktarvy may not suit you if you have specific depression or mental health conditions. If you have a history of depression or suicidal attentions, tell your doctor. They’ll likely tell you other treatment options that might suit you better. And if you face new mental health conditions while taking Biktarvy, tell your doctor immediately.
How to avoid Biktarvy side effects?
There is always a chance of side effects with any medicine. You can lower your risk of damaging reactions in some ways.
1. Tell your doctor about all pre-existing medical conditions.
Some medical or mental conditions may prevent you from taking Biktarvy. Tell your doctor about all pre-taking medical conditions before starting HIV treatment. Those with a history of kidney disease, hepatitis B, and psychiatric disorders should monitored.
2. Tell your doctor about all medications you are taking.
Ask your doctor about all medications you currently take, including prescription drugs and herbal supplements.
3. Take Biktarvy as directed by your healthcare provider.
Your doctor will give you recommendations on how to take Biktarvy. It’s usually taken by mouth, with or without food. It’s essential to take your medication exactly as prescribed. Read the label and follow the drug information given to you by your doctor.
4. Watch for adverse reactions.
Biktarvy may cause severe reactions in some people. Watch for nausea, vomiting, headache, fatigue, rash, and muscle pain. Ask about any adverse reactions to your pharmacist.
5. Take Biktarvy at the same time each day.
It would help if you took intervals regularly each day. It will assist you to avoid missed doses. Only alter your dosing schedule after consulting with your doctor first.
6. Get your medication refills on time.
It’s crucial to take your medication on a set schedule. If you do not follow your treatment plan, it may increase virus levels in your blood. Make sure to maintain a reminder for prescription refills to avoid running out.
7. Report any skin rashes.
Biktarvy may cause blisters in some people, and the rash may be mild or severe. Because Biktarvy has associated toxic epidermal necrolysis, you should ask your doctor immediately if you develop a rash.
Conclusion: Biktarvy side effects
Biktarvy offers a combination of drugs that target many stages of the virus’s life cycle. While it has proven effective, it’s not without its potential side effects. Individuals living with HIV need to have honest discussions with their doctor about the benefits and risks of Biktarvy. Your healthcare provider can help you resolve if Biktarvy is the right choice.
Side effects can vary from person to person, and not everyone will face them. The majority of people taking Biktarvy experience only mild and temporary side effects. If anyone experiences severe side effects, then they need medical attention. Biktarvy shows a significant advancement in HIV. It gives hope for better control of the virus.
Also read: Ontology in medicine and nursing; Tocilizumab side effects; Ubrelvy side effects
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