This combination medication 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 effects, seek medical attention immediately.
Common side effects reported from emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate 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 serious 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 serious adverse reaction to this medication and require treatment right away.
As with all prescription medication, inform your doctor of any medical conditions you are currently managing. Tell them about any and all medication, prescription drugs, and supplements you are taking before starting treatment with emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate. Emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate can interact with substances in the body, 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. Be sure to mention any herbal products you are using, especially St. John’s wort.
In addition, let your doctor know if you are planning to become pregnant, are pregnant, or are currently breastfeeding before starting treatment with this medication.