Truvada (Emtricitabine/tenofovir) is a
combination nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitor that can be
used as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV. It has been shown
to dramatically reduce the risk of contracting HIV.
It is
used in high-risk patients, like the MSM community or those who are
in a relationship with someone with HIV.
Side
effects include nausea, vomiting, headache, and liver
damage.
HIV
testing should be performed every 3 months while taking it, since
it is not meant to fight an actual infection.
Since
2012, there have only been 3 confirmed cases of transmission while
using Truvada.
It
costs between 50-60$ dollars per pill, but it is covered by most
insurances, including Medicaid.
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