Virarazer

Virarazer

Virarazer (Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate + Emtricitabine + Efavirenz) belongs to the class of anti-hiv medications, specifically indicated for managing HIV-1 infection in adults and children. Virarazer is a triple combination drug comprising of three molecules namely Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) 300 mg, Efavirenz (EFV) 600 mg and Emtricitabine (FTC) 200 mg. Virarazer (TDF 300 mg + EFV 600 mg + FTC 200 mg) does not cure the infection however, it reduces the viral load in the body which in turn enhances the immune resistance and improves the quality of life of patients.

Recommended dosage of Virarazer (TDF 300 mg + EFV 600 mg + FTC 200 mg):

Patient population

Bodyweight

Dosage regimen

Mode of administration

Adults

≥40 kgs

1 tablet at bedtime without food

Orally once daily

Children (≥12 years)

Renal (kidney) impairment

-

Avoided in patients with moderate to severe disease (creatine clearance below 50 mL/min)

-

Rifampin Coadministration

≥50 kgs

1 tablet + 200 mg of EFV at bedtime without food

Orally once daily

Other properties of Virarazer (TDF 300 mg + EFV 600 mg + FTC 200 mg):

All the molecules carry out their activities in different modes. In ideal conditions, TDF takes around 1 hour and 40 minutes to absorb whereas EFV and FTC require approximately 3 to 5 hours and 1 to 2 hours, respectively.

Binding with viral cells: The Binding efficiency of TDF and FTC have not been tested. However, with the 99.5 to 99.7% power of EFV, the triple-drug binds resourcefully without any hassle.

Bioavailability and Excretion: The absolute availability of TDF is 25% whereas FTC shows 93%. However, TDF takes around 17 hours to throw out 50% of the drug but FTC needs 7 hours (10 hours) lesser and EFV requires 52-76 hours.

Side-effects and warnings associated with Virarazer (TDF 300 mg + EFV 600 mg + FTC 200 mg):

Which information should patients provide before taking the drug?

• •  If patients are pregnant or planning to get pregnant

• •  If patients are breastfeeding (They should not take the drug)

• •  If they have problems in the kidney or undergoing dialysis

• •  Have problems in bones including bone fractures, osteoporosis-related symptoms or bone loss

• •  Are suffering from Hepatitis B viral infection or other liver ailments

• •  If patients had a history of mental illness or addicted to drugs or alcohol

• •  If they had seizures or taking medicines for them

Side-effects:

Lactic acidosis (excessive build-up of lactic acid in the blood): It is considered under medical emergency with symptoms like weakness, tiredness, abnormal pain in the muscles and stomach area, trouble breathing, nausea, vomiting, cold feet and hands, dizziness, and irregular heartbeats.

Kidney problems: It may include deterioration or failure of kidney functions with symptoms like a high volume of urine, thirstiness, and weakened muscles.

Hepatomegaly (enlarged liver) and Steatosis (Excessive fats in the liver): These conditions may lead to hepatotoxicity (toxicity of liver) with symptoms like dark urine, yellow-colored skin or eyes (jaundice), loss of appetite, sickness in the stomach, and abdominal pain

Severe psychiatric problems: There are chances of procuring neuro-psychotic symptoms in few cases. The symptoms include severe anxiety and depression, aggressive behavior, and delusions occurring due to EFV.

Common side-effects (Reduced after a few weeks of therapy)

Other side-effects

Difficult in sleeping and concentrating with infrequent dreams

Increased amounts of fats in the upper back, neck, breast, and trunk regions

Headache

Swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat due to an allergic reaction to drugs

Rashes on the skin

Skin discoloration with small freckles and spots

Dizziness

Weakness and Shortness of breath

Upset stomach

Stomach pain

Vomiting

Inflammation caused by previous infections and the pancreas

Diarrhea

Indigestion

Note: Virarazer (TDF 300 mg + EFV 600 mg + FTC 200 mg) might show other side effects as well. If you need more information, please consult your doctor.