Descovy is a brand-name prescription medication that providers prescribe in conjunction with other forms of medicine to treat the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). This medication is also defined as a preventative measure, along with safe sex practices like condom use, against HIV infections in high-risk adults and teenagers.

This medication is not a cure for an existing HIV infection or AIDS. It lowers levels of the human immunodeficiency virus in the body to prevent severe illness and the development of AIDS. Descovy will not prevent the spread of HIV to others.

Descovy contains a combination of emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide, available as a generic combination medication. Descovy is only available via prescription from a licensed health care provider.

Descovy is prescribed in conjunction with other medications to treat an HIV infection. It is prescribed to people diagnosed with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). It reduces the risk of developing severe health complications caused by a destroyed immune system. This medication can also help patients diagnosed with HIV slow the virus’ effect on the immune system, reducing the risk of HIV developing into AIDS. In addition, health care providers prescribe Descovy to prevent HIV infection in at-risk populations.

HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is a viral infection that damages your body’s immune system. HIV is transmitted through sexual contact or contact with infected blood. Pregnant women may pass this disease to their unborn child or through breastfeeding. HIV is an early stage of the infection that may progress to AIDS. If left untreated, HIV usually develops into AIDS within 8–10 months once the virus severely damages the immune system.

HIV/AIDS dramatically affects your body’s ability to fight infections. Individuals managing AIDS may become fatally ill from a disease that causes mild symptoms in healthy individuals.

Deaths caused by HIV/AIDS have decreased in the last 10–20 years; however, the disease is still deadly if left untreated. Descovy helps patients diagnosed with HIV prevent these complications from occurring.

Descovy is classified as a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI). These drugs work by blocking the action of the reverse transcriptase enzyme. This enzyme plays a crucial role in the reproduction of HIV. By inhibiting this enzyme, NRTIs slow the multiplication of HIV in the body, which ultimately lowers the overall level of HIV in the blood.

It is important to note that this medication does not cure HIV or AIDS. It is also usually prescribed along with other medicines. A health care provider will detail a comprehensive treatment plan, including Descovy, which should be followed precisely to prevent the infection from worsening.

Descovy has been shown to cause some mild side effects. Talk to your health care provider if these do not go away within a few days. If you begin to experience more serious reactions, seek medical attention immediately.

Common side effects reported from Descovy use include:

• Anxiety
  
• Depression
  
• Insomnia
  
• Chills
  
• Body aches
  
• Diarrhea
  
• Fever
  
• Reddened or tender skin
  
• Pain or tingling in the hands and/ or feet
  
• Heartburn
  
• Fatigue
  
• Weakness
  
• Weight loss
  
  

More severe side effects include:

• Swelling
  
• Difficulty breathing
  
• Changes in urination frequency
  
• Pain during urination
  
• Stomach pain
  
• Flu-like symptoms
  
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
  
• Muscle pain
  
• Changes in heartbeat
  
• Dizziness
  
• Lightheadedness
  
• Rash/ blistering
  
• Nausea
  
• Vomiting
  
• Kidney or liver problems
  
  

If you experience any of these side effects, seek medical attention immediately. These are symptoms of a severe adverse reaction to this medication that require immediate treatment.

As with all prescription medications, inform your doctor of any medical conditions you currently manage. Tell them about any and all medications, prescription drugs, and supplements you are taking before starting treatment with Descovy. Descovy can interact with bodily substances, causing potentially serious adverse reactions.

Specifically, you should inform your health care provider of any antiviral, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID), or anti-HIV/AIDS medication you are taking. Remember to mention any herbal products you use, especially St. John’s wort.

In addition, let your doctor know if you plan to become pregnant, are pregnant, or are currently breastfeeding before starting treatment with this medication.

Descovy is commonly supplied as an oral tablet to be taken once a day. Swallow the oral tablet whole. Descovy can be taken with or without food. Follow your doctor’s instructions.

The exact dosage of this medication will depend on the patient’s age and body weight. Take the medication exactly as ordered. Do not increase or discontinue the dosage without consulting your health care provider.

You must follow the entire course of treatment with this medication. Do not stop using it, even if you or your child begin to feel better.

If you begin to notice any adverse side effects like those listed above, notify your health care provider immediately.

Descovy is currently only available via prescription. This means that a licensed health care provider must authorize the use of this medication.

If you are looking for a prescription, doctors on Sesame can write one or refill an existing one during a virtual or in-person visit. Note that not all drugs can be prescribed via an online video appointment. In some cases, an in-person doctor's visit is required for a prescription.

Depending on the medication, you can arrange for same-day pickup at your pharmacy. Book an appointment with a provider on Sesame today to discuss whether or not this medication is right for you.

All prescriptions are at the discretion of your health care provider. Sesame cannot guarantee you will be provided a prescription after a video or in-person appointment. Providers on Sesame are unable to prescribe controlled substances. For more information about controlled substances, check out the Drug Enforcement Agency’s scheduling guidelines here.

Good news! If deemed clinically appropriate, providers on Sesame can write a prescription for Descovy to be picked up near you—often within the same day! Simply talk to a clinician and get your online doctor prescription or refill ordered immediately for fast and convenient pickup from a pharmacy of your choice.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider.