efavirenz lamivudine tenofovir

Sold under the brand name Telura, Efavirenz/lamivudine/tenofovir is a fixed dose combination medication for the treatment of HIV/AIDS. Although Efavirenz, lamivudine and tenofovir will not cure HIV, these medications may still decrease your chance of developing acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and HIV-related illnesses such as serious infections or cancer. Besides, taking these medications along with practicing safer sex and making other lifestyle changes may decrease the risk of getting or transmitting the HIV virus to other people. Bear in mind that this dose combination comes as a tablet to take by mouth. Plus, it is usually taken once a day on an empty stomach (at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal). Also remember that you should continue to take efavirenz, lamivudine, and tenofovir even if you feel well. In other words, do not stop taking this combination without talking to your doctor first. And if you stop taking it even for a short time, or skip doses, the virus may actually become resistant to medications and may be harder to treat. As for the side effects of Efavirenz/lamivudine/tenofovir, they can include joint pain, sleepiness, headaches, trouble sleeping, and itchiness. There are also serious side effects such depression, psychosis, or osteonecrosis. Plus, in those with a history of epilepsy, Efavirenz/lamivudine/tenofovir may in fact increase the frequency of seizures. It is still unclear, though, if the use of this medication during pregnancy is safe