Atripla
Generic Name:
Efavirenz, Emtricitabine, and Tenofovir
Brand Names:
Atripla
Atripla Description:
Atripla is prescribed to patients to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the virus that causes acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS).
Though not a cure for HIV or AIDS, Atripla contains three reverse transcriptase inhibitors (efavirenz, emtricitabine, and tenofovir) that work to block HIV-1 reverse transcriptase, a chemical in the body required for HIV-1 to multiply. Atripla also lowers the amount of HIV-1 in the blood and may help increase the number of T cells in the blood to help improve the immune system of those taking the medication.
Atripla Side Effects:
Serious side effects associated with the use of Atripla include:
- Severe depression
- Angry behavior
- Strange thoughts
- Dizziness
- Difficulty sleeping or concentrating
- Drowsiness
- Unusual dreams, hallucinations
- Kidney or liver problems
- Rash
- Seizures
- Bone changes
For more information, see our Atripla side effects page.
Atripla Uses:
Atripla is used in the treatment of HIV. The medication may be used alone orin combination with other medications as part of a treatment plan to combat HIV. Atripla contains three HIV medicines, efavirenz, emtricitabine, and tenofovir, in one pill.
Atripla does not cure or prevent HIV.
Atripla Interactions:
Patients taking Atripla should not use the medication in combination with the following medicines:
- Bepridil
- Cisapride
- Ergot medications
- Lamivudine-containing medicines
- Midazolam
- Other anti-HIV medicines containing efavirenz, emtricitabine, and tenofovir
- Pimozide
- St. John's wort
- Triazolam
- Voriconazole
Make your doctor aware of use of the following medications before taking them along with Atripla:
- Calcium channel blockers
- Cholesterol-lowering medications
- Seizure medications
- Videx, Videx EC
- Tenofir DF
- Didanosine
- Reyataz
- Kaletra
Atripla Dosage Information:
Typical Dosage Recommendations
Patients should take Atripla according to the dosing recommendations provided by your doctor.
Take Atripla on an empty stomach with water.
Adults taking Atripla typically take one tablet daily, containing 600 mg efavirenz, 200 mg emtricitabine and 300 mg of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate.
Missing a Dose of Atripla
If a dose of Atripla is missed, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is nearly time for your next dose, simply skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regularly scheduled time. Do not take a double dose of Atripla.
Atripla Overdose
If an overdose of Atripla occurs, seek emergency medical attention.
Atripla FDA Approval:
July 12, 2006
Atripla Recall/Black Box Warning Information:
Atripla carries a Black Box warning of the risk of lactic acidosis (the buildup of lactic acid in the blood stream) and severe hepatomegaly (enlarged liver).
Additionally, liver disease in patients with HIV and hepatitis B (HBV) may worsen if a patients stops taking Atripla. Do not stop taking the medication unless instructed to do so by your doctor.
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