Descovy VS Truvada for PrEP
PrEPAsian's new resource compares Truvada and Descovy, guiding you to choose the best PrEP medication based on your needs.
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Descovy VS Truvada for PrEP
Truvada (emtricitabine/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate) and Descovy (emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide) are oral tablets available under brand names. Both are approved for treating and preventing HIV, but only Truvada is offered in a generic form.
Descovy: Emtricitabine/Tenofovir Alafenamide (FTC/TAF)
Descovy is a new PrEP medication with emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide (TAF), offering a safer alternative for kidney and bone health compared to older options. Unlike Truvada, which uses tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF), Descovy is better tolerated with fewer risks of kidney issues and bone density loss. It delivers higher concentrations of tenofovir into cells, reaching protective levels more quickly and maintaining them longer. Studies show that Descovy is just as effective as Truvada in preventing HIV, with fewer infections in those using F/TAF. However, it's not approved for all uses and should be prescribed carefully, especially in combination with other antivirals.
Truvada vs Descovy: Key Differences
- FDA Approval: Truvada (2004), Descovy (2016).
- PrEP Approval: Truvada (2012), Descovy (2019).
- Active Ingredients: Both contain emtricitabine, but Truvada uses TDF and Descovy uses TAF.
- Kidney & Bone Health: Descovy is better for those with kidney concerns.
- Cost: Descovy is generally more expensive than Truvada, especially in the U.S.
- Usage: Truvada is approved for both anal and vaginal sex, while Descovy is only recommended for anal sex.
PrEP Medications at PrEPAsian
| PrEP Options | Special Promotion | ||
| PrEP Pills |
1 bottle | 6 bottles (6 months) | 12 bottles (12 months) |
| Descovy | 3,150 THB | 18,000 THB | 36,000 THB |
| Generic Descovy | 1,640 THB | 9,000 THB | 18,000 THB |
| Teno-Em (Generic Truvada) | 1,250 THB | 7,500 THB | 12,000 THB |
| Tenof-Em (Generic Truvada) | 1,050 THB | 6,300 THB | 10,900 THB |
| PrEP Injection | 3 injections (5 months) | 5 injections (9 months) | 7 injections (13 months) |
| Apretude (Cabotegravir) | 58,000 THB | 95,000 THB | 126,000 THB |
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Dosage and Administration
Both medications come as oral tablets taken daily. Truvada tablets are larger, with varying strengths based on TDF concentrations, while Descovy comes in fewer, smaller dosages with TAF. Your doctor will adjust your dose depending on your health status and risk factors.
What should I do if I have hepatitis B?
Since both types of PrEP contain tenofovir, the risks of discontinuing treatment for individuals with hepatitis B are the same. People with hepatitis B need to speak with their healthcare provider before stopping any form of PrEP.
Important Warnings
Truvada and Descovy are not suitable for everyone, especially those with certain health conditions. Always consult a doctor before starting treatment.