Used For:

• Treatment of HIV-1 infection in adults and adolescents (≥12 years and weighing ≥35 kg) as part of combination antiretroviral therapy (cART).Prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV (in combination therapy, under medical supervision).May be used in HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in certain regimens (off-label, per guidelines).

Contraindications:

• Known hypersensitivity to emtricitabine, tenofovir alafenamide, or any excipient in the tablet.Severe renal impairment (eGFR <15 mL/min) unless under specialist supervision.Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection: discontinuation can cause severe acute exacerbation — caution needed.

Side Effects:

• Common Side EffectsGastrointestinal: Nausea, diarrhea, abdominal painCNS: Headache, dizziness, insomniaMetabolic: Fatigue, mild weight lossDermatologic: Rash, hyperpigmentation of palms or soles (rare)Serious / Rare Side EffectsLactic acidosis and severe hepatomegaly with steatosis (rare but life-threatening)Renal toxicity: Fanconi syndrome, renal failure (rare, usually in predisposing conditions)Bone mineral density reduction (TAF has lower risk than Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate [TDF], but monitoring may be needed)Exacerbation of hepatitis B if therapy is stopped abruptly

Precautions:

• HIV treatment: Must always be part of a combination therapy regimen, not used alone.Renal function: Monitor serum creatinine and eGFR periodically.Liver function: Monitor in patients with HBV or HCV co-infection.Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Can be used if the benefit outweighs the risk; monitor infants for HIV exposure.Resistance: Ensure adherence to avoid drug resistance.Drug interactions: Caution with nephrotoxic drugs (NSAIDs, aminoglycosides) or other antiretrovirals.