Emtricitabine
Uses of Emtricitabine
Emtricitabine is commonly used to treat HIV Infection.
How Emtricitabine Works
Emtricitabine is a synthetic nucleoside analogue of cytidine, undergoes molecular changes to become active. It then gets incorporated into viral DNA, specifically HIV-1 and HIV-2 which results in chain termination and stops viral replication.
Side Effects of Emtricitabine
Diarrhea, Headache, Elevated creatine kinase, Nausea, Increased number of white blood cells, Allergic reaction, Insomnia, Abdominal pain, Dyspepsia, Rash, Anemia, Skin discolouration
Warnings
Kidney Use With Care
Emtricitabine should be used with caution in patients with severe kidney disease. Dose adjustment of Emtricitabine may be needed. Please consult your doctor before using it.
Alcohol Not Advisable
Rare cases of Emtricitabine have been reported in patients with advanced HIV disease and long- term antiretroviral therapy. However, it is due to several factors including chronic alcohol consumption. Drug interactions are still inconclusive. Please consult your doctor before using it.
Pregnancy Maybe Safe
Emtricitabine may be unsafe to use during pregnancy. Animal studies have not shown adverse effects on the fetus but there are limited human studies. Please consult your doctor before using it.
Driving Generally Safe
Emtricitabine may cause side effects of headaches, all of which could affect your ability to concentrate and drive. Do not drive unless you are feeling well.
Liver Use With Care
Emtricitabine should be used with caution in patients with liver disease. Dose adjustment of Emtricitabine may be needed. Please consult your doctor before using it.
Lactation Not Advisable
Emtricitabine is excreted in breast milk but there are limited studies regarding its effect on feeding baby. It is also recommended that HIV- positive mothers do not breastfeed their children regardless of circumstances to avoid transmission of HIV.
Frequently Asked Questions
Written by Dr Sri Viknarajan, MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)
Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
