Tavin EM Tablet: Dosage, Uses, Precautions & Side Effects Explained

Tavin EM is a fixed-dose combination medicine containing the active components emtricitabine (200mg) and tenofovir (300mg), initially discovered to treat human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) infection. It is now labelled for use as pre-exposure prophylaxis to prevent HIV-1 in high-risk patients. This article provides a complete guide on the uses, necessary precautions, suitable dosage, and potential side effects of Tavin EM.

Uses of Tavin EM

Tavin EM is indicated for the treatment of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV-1) infections in adults. It is also given to adolescents aged 12 to 18 years who weigh at least 35 kg and who have already been treated with other HIV medicines that have failed to provide results or have caused adverse effects. Tavin EM is a two-drug combination of emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate. Both active substances belong to a class of medications known as antiretroviral medicines, which are widely prescribed medications used in the treatment and prevention of HIV infection. However, both are generally known as NRTIs (Nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors), which work by affecting the normal functioning of reverse transcriptase, an enzyme required for the virus to reproduce itself. Emtricitabine/Tenofovir does not cure HIV but plays a central role in reducing the viral load, maintaining immune strength, and preventing the progression to AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome).

Additionally, this combination of HIV medicines can be used as a part of pre-exposure prophylaxis, a preventive measure for people at high risk of contracting HIV infection. The combination medicine for HIV can only be bought with a prescription, and treatment should be started under the supervision of a healthcare expert who has experience in the management of HIV infection. HIV positive people can still transmit the deadly virus when receiving the treatment, although the risk is lowered by effective antiretroviral treatment. Discuss with your healthcare expert the precautions you need to take to avoid infecting other people.

Suitable dosing regimen

Tavin EM is available as capsule-shaped coated tablets. Each tablet contains 200mg of emtricitabine and 300 mg of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate. Although Tavin EM requires only a single daily dose to treat HIV, strict adherence is essential. The tablet can be taken at any time, regardless of mealtime. Those who have stomach discomfort can prefer taking the tablet with a meal. Tavin EM is usually taken in combination with other antiretroviral medicines as part of a complete HIV treatment regimen. Moreover, for HIV prevention, a single tablet a day is usually recommended for individuals at high risk of HIV infection. Consistent daily use is crucial for maintaining maximum effectiveness. Make sure you take it daily to lower your risk, not just when you think you have been at risk of developing HIV. Missing doses can lower its protective benefits. The medication must be consumed regularly as prescribed.

Treatment discontinuation without medical advice can give rise to viral resistance, ultimately making your HIV medicine less effective in the future. The dosing information provided here is for general educational purposes only. It should not be used as a substitute for medical advice, which should be obtained from a qualified healthcare professional. 

Precautions before using the Tavin EM tablet

While taking Tavin EM to reduce the risk of getting HIV is effective, it requires careful use under medical supervision. Here are the key precautions to keep in mind before and during this antiretroviral therapy:

• Tavin EM may affect your kidneys: Before or during the therapy, your healthcare provider may conduct blood tests to check kidney function. You must inform your healthcare provider if you have a history of any renal dysfunction or if any tests have shown kidney impairment. Suppose you have been diagnosed with a kidney disorder. In that case, you should be advised to stop taking emtricitabine/tenofovir, or if you already have HIV, you may be advised to take this medication less frequently.

• Liver health checkup is necessary: HIV infected individuals who are also suffering from liver disease (including chronic hepatitis B or C) who are receiving antiretrovirals have an increased risk of severe life-threatening complications.

• Be aware of hepatitis B (HBV) infection status: If you have HBV, there is a high risk of developing liver problems when you discontinue Tavin EM, whether or not you have HIV infection. Do not stop taking emtricitabine/tenofovir tablets without talking to your healthcare provider.

• Be cautious if you are an elder: The combination medication has not been studied in patients over 65 years of age.

• It is essential to inform your healthcare professional if you are lactose intolerant.

• Use in children: Tavin EM is not for use in children under 12 years of age.

• Drug interactions: It is especially important to inform your healthcare expert if you are taking aminoglycosides, amphotericin, ganciclovir, vancomycin, pentamidine, foscarnet, cidofovir, interleukin-2, or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These medications have the potential to affect the mode of action of emtricitabine/tenofovir.

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: If you think you could get pregnant during the treatment, you must use an effective contraceptive method to avoid pregnancy. If you have taken Tavin EM during pregnancy, your healthcare expert may advise blood tests and other required tests to monitor the development of your baby. Moreover, breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment. This is because the active substances in the medicine can pass into the breast milk.

Potential side effects

Common side effects include diarrhoea, feeling sick, rash, feeling weak, stomach pain, trouble sleeping, abnormal dreams, digestive problems, dizziness, headache, and rashes, which may be allergic reactions.

Possible serious side effects may include deep, rapid breathing and excess lactic acid in the blood, which can be life-threatening.  If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.

Note: The information provided in this article is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, warnings, precautions, allergic reactions, drug interactions or side effects. If you have any questions about this medicine, consult a healthcare professional.

Takeaway!

By suppressing viral load and improving the immune system, Tavin EM allows HIV infected individuals to live a healthy life and reduce the risk of transmission of the infection to others.