What is Descovy (emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide) for?

Descovy (emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide) is indicated for the treatment of individuals infected with human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1), a virus that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). It is used in adults and adolescents aged over 12 years and who weigh at least 35 kg^[1].

How does Descovy (emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide) work?

Each tablet of Descovy (emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide) contains 200 mg of emtricitabine and either 10 or 25 mg of tenofovir alafenamide.

Inside the body tenofovir alafenamide is converted into the active substance tenofovir. Tenofovir and emtricitabine block the activity of the enzyme made by the virus to reproduce itself in the cells it has infected. It thus keeps the amount of HIV in the blood at a low level.

Descovy (emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide) does not cure HIV infection or AIDS, but it can prevent damages to the immune system and the development of infections and diseases associated with AIDS.