Question
Tenofovir DF vs Tenofovir AF
25 September 2023. Related: All topics, Changing treatment, Side effects.
I’ve heard Gilead are being sued for Truvada because it contained TDF, which caused bone density loss and kidney issues.
I’m on Biktarvy. Is this produced by Gilead? Will Biktarvy result in the same concerns?
Answer
Hi, how are you?
Yes, Biktarvy is produced by Gilead. No, it will not result in the same concerns.
Truvada uses Tenofovir DF and Biktarvy uses Tenofovir AF.
Tenofovir AF is a newer version of Tenofovir DF and it has a smaller side effect profile. It does not have the same risk of kidney injury and for this reason is a preferred treatment in people with pre-existing kidney issues.
This is similarly true for bone problems. Whereas Tenofovir DF has been associated with a 1-3% increase in bone density loss, Tenofovir AF has been shown to have a safer bone profile making it more suitable in people susceptible to ill bone health.
For these reasons Biktarvy will not be met with the same issues as Truvada.
Josh.
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