Bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide (Biktarvy) 

50mg/200mg/25mg Tablet

How does this medication work?

• Bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide (Biktarvy) has three medications in one pill that work together to prevent human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) from replicating (or making more virus) in your body
• Biktarvy does not cure HIV but will control the virus and prevent problems as long as it is taken every day.

How do I take this medication?

• Take 1 tablet by mouth once daily
• Does not matter what time of day you take it but needs to be the same time every day
• Can be taken with or without food
• Very important to not miss any doses, missed doses can cause Biktarvy to stop working

Can I take Biktarvy with my other mediations?

• Most of the time, yes, but always check with the clinic pharmacist first
• Always bring a list of medications with you to all appointments
• Always talk to your doctor or pharmacist before starting a new medication (including over-the-counter and herbal medications)

What are the side effects of this medication?

• Reactions that usually go away or can be treated:
  • Upset stomach, diarrhea – try taking medicine with food or at bedtime
  • Headache – contact clinic pharmacist for safe treatment options
• Rare but possibly serious side effects:
  • Allergic reaction: rash, fever, muscle/joint aches, blistering or peeling of skin, mouth blisters, swelling of face, difficulty breathing - contact the clinic or go to the nearest emergency room
  • Liver problems or kidney problems
  • Lactic acidosis (too much lactic acid in your blood)
• If you have hepatitis B, this medication will help to control this virus, but if you stop it suddenly your hepatitis B can get worse and cause serious liver problems

What to do if I forget a dose?

• If you realize you forgot a dose the same day: take it as soon as you remember then continue with your regular schedule
• If you realize you forgot a dose the next day: skip the dose and continue with your regular schedule
• Do not ever take two tablets at the same time

Storage?

• Store Biktarvy in a dry place at room temperature (between 59°F and 86°F or 15°C and 30°C)
• Keep out of reach of children and pets

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

• There is not enough information to determine the safety of Biktarvy during pregnancy; 
• If you think you are pregnant or are planning to become pregnant notify the clinic immediately; do not stop your medication
• HIV infected mothers are recommended to not breastfeed due to the risk of the baby getting HIV from the breast milk