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Medication guide

Emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate: uses, appearance and warnings

What the official FDA label says Emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate is used for, what it looks like, and its most important warnings — in plain English, with the label text one click away.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus Nucleoside Analog Reverse Transcriptase InhibitorPrescription label

Uses

What the official label says Emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate is used for

Emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate is a prescription combination of two HIV-1 nucleoside analog reverse transcriptase inhibitors. The label says it is used with other HIV medicines to treat HIV-1 infection in adults and children above a certain weight.

The label also says it is used for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to reduce the risk of sexually acquired HIV-1 in at-risk adults and teens above a certain weight, and that people must have a negative HIV-1 test right before starting PrEP. It is meant to be part of a broader prevention plan that includes safer sex practices.

Read the label's “Indications and usage” section (verbatim)
HIV-1 Treatment (1.1) Emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate is a two-drug combination of emtricitabine (FTC) and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF), both HIV-1 nucleoside analog reverse transcriptase inhibitors, and is indicated: in combination with other antiretroviral agents for the treatment of HIV-1 infection in adults and pediatric patients weighing at least 17 kg. HIV-1 PrEP (1.2): Emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate is indicated in at-risk adults and adolescents weighing at least 35 kg for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to reduce the risk of sexually acquired HIV-1 infection. Individuals must have a negative HIV-1 test immediately prior to initiating emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate for HIV-1 PrEP. 1.1 Treatment of HIV-1 Infection Emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate is indicated in combination with other antiretroviral agents for the treatment of HIV-1 infection in adults and pediatric patients weighing at least 17 kg [see Clinical Studies (14)] . 1.2 HIV-1 Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) Emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate is indicated in at-risk adults and adolescents weighing at least 35 kg for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to reduce the risk of sexually acquired HIV-1 infection. Individuals must have a negative HIV-1 test immediately prior to initiating emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate for HIV-1 PrEP [see Dosage and Administration (2.2), Warnings and Precautions (5.2)] .

Names & forms

Brand names, forms and strengths

Brand names (from RxNorm; not every brand is still sold): Truvada.

Generic name: emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil · RxNorm ID (RxCUI): 1008145

Forms and strengths of Emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate listed in RxNorm
FormStrengths listed in RxNorm
Oral Tabletemtricitabine 100 MG / tenofovir disoproxil fumarate 150 MG, emtricitabine 133 MG / tenofovir disoproxil fumarate 200 MG, emtricitabine 167 MG / tenofovir disoproxil fumarate 250 MG, emtricitabine 200 MG / tenofovir disoproxil fumarate 300 MG

Strengths are listed so you can recognise a product — not as dosing information. Only your prescriber can decide what is right for you.

Read the label's “Dosage forms and strengths” section (verbatim)
Emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate is available as tablets. Each tablet contains 200 mg of emtricitabine and 300 mg of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (which is equivalent to 245 mg of tenofovir disoproxil). The tablets are white colored, capsule-shaped, film-coated, engraved TE on one side and plain on the other side. Tablets: 200 mg/300 mg of emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, respectively. (3)

Appearance

What Emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate looks like

Illustration: white capsule tablet, imprint TETE

emtricitabine 200 mg / tenofovir disoproxil fumarate 300 mg
Strides Pharma Science Limited

Illustration: white to off white capsule tablet, film coated, imprint LA49LA49

emtricitabine 200 mg / tenofovir disoproxil fumarate 300 mg
Laurus Labs Limited

Illustration: blue oval tablet, film coated, imprint GILEAD 701GILEAD 701

emtricitabine 200 mg / tenofovir disoproxil fumarate 300 mg
Gilead Sciences, Inc

Illustration: blue oval tablet, film coated, imprint GSI 703GSI 703

emtricitabine 100 mg / tenofovir disoproxil fumarate 150 mg
Gilead Sciences, Inc

Illustration: blue oval tablet, film coated, imprint GSI 704GSI 704

emtricitabine 133 mg / tenofovir disoproxil fumarate 200 mg
Gilead Sciences, Inc

Illustration: blue oval tablet, film coated, imprint GSI 705GSI 705

emtricitabine 167 mg / tenofovir disoproxil fumarate 250 mg
Gilead Sciences, Inc

Illustration based on label data — not a photo; appearance varies by manufacturer. Confirm with your pharmacist.
Appearance of Emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate products from DailyMed product data
StrengthFormColourShapeSizeImprintScoreLabeler
emtricitabine 200 mg / tenofovir disoproxil fumarate 300 mgtabletwhitecapsule19 mmTE1Strides Pharma Science Limited
emtricitabine 200 mg / tenofovir disoproxil fumarate 300 mgtablet, film coatedwhite“white to off white”capsule19 mmLA491Laurus Labs Limited
emtricitabine 200 mg / tenofovir disoproxil fumarate 300 mgtablet, film coatedblueoval19 mmGILEAD · 7011Gilead Sciences, Inc
emtricitabine 100 mg / tenofovir disoproxil fumarate 150 mgtablet, film coatedblueoval14 mmGSI · 7031Gilead Sciences, Inc
emtricitabine 133 mg / tenofovir disoproxil fumarate 200 mgtablet, film coatedblueoval16 mmGSI · 7041Gilead Sciences, Inc
emtricitabine 167 mg / tenofovir disoproxil fumarate 250 mgtablet, film coatedblueoval18 mmGSI · 7051Gilead Sciences, Inc
emtricitabine 200 mg / tenofovir disoproxil fumarate 300 mgtablet, film coatedwhite“white to off-white”capsule19 mmH · 1241Camber Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

From the product data in each manufacturer's label on DailyMed. Many companies make Emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, so your medicine may look different from any shown here. If a pill looks unfamiliar, ask your pharmacist before taking it.

Read the label's “How supplied” section (verbatim)
The white colored, capsule shaped, biconvex, film coated tablets contain 200 mg of emtricitabine and 300 mg of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (which is equivalent to 245 mg of tenofovir disoproxil), tablets engraved TE on one side and plain on the other side., and are available in unit of use bottles (75CC), containing a dessicant [silica gel canister or sachet] and closed with a child-resistant closure/screw cap of: 30 tablets (NDC-64380-719-04) Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Protect from light. Keep container tightly closed Dispense only in original container Do not use if seal over bottle opening is broken or missing

Safety

Important warnings for Emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate

Boxed warning (verbatim from the FDA label)

POSTTREATMENT ACUTE EXACERBATION OF HEPATITIS B and RISK OF DRUG RESISTANCE WITH USE OF EMTRICITABINE AND TENOFOVIR DISOPROXIL FUMARATE FOR HIV-1 PRE-EXPOSURE PROPHYLAXIS (PrEP) IN UNDIAGNOSED EARLY HIV-1 INFECTION Severe acute exacerbations of hepatitis B (HBV) have been reported in HBV-infected individuals who have discontinued emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate. Hepatic function should be monitored closely with both clinical and laboratory follow-up for at least several months in individuals who are infected with HBV and discontinue emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate. If appropriate, anti-hepatitis B therapy may be warranted [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)]. Emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate used for HIV-1 PrEP must only be prescribed to individuals confirmed to be HIV-negative immediately prior to initiating and at least every 3 months during use. Drug-resistant HIV-1 variants have been identified with use of emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate for HIV-1 PrEP following undetected acute HIV-1 infection. Do not initiate emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate for HIV-1 PrEP if signs or symptoms of acute HIV-1 infection are present unless negative infection status is confirmed [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]. WARNING: POSTTREATMENT ACUTE EXACERBATION OF HEPATITIS B and RISK OF DRUG RESISTANCE WITH USE OF EMTRICITABINE AND TENOFOVIR DISOPROXIL FUMARATE FOR HIV-1 PRE-EXPOSURE PROPHYLAXIS (PrEP) IN UNDIAGNOSED EARLY HIV-1 INFECTION See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning Severe acute exacerbations of hepatitis B (HBV) have been reported in HBV-infected individuals who have discontinued emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate. Hepatic function should be monitored closely in these individuals who discontinue emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate. If appropriate anti-hepatitis B therapy may be warranted. (5.1) Emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate used for HIV-1 PrEP must only be prescribed to individuals confirmed to be HIV-negative immediately prior to initiating and at least every 3 months during use. Drug-resistant HIV-1 variants have been identified with the use of emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate for HIV-1 PrEP following undetected acute HIV-1 infection. Do not initiate emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate for HIV-1 PrEP if signs or symptoms of acute HIV infection are present unless negative infection status is confirmed. (5.2)

In plain English, the label's key warnings include:

  • Boxed warning: severe flare-ups of hepatitis B have been reported in people with hepatitis B who stopped this medicine, so liver function is watched closely afterward.
  • Boxed warning: for PrEP, it must only be used by people confirmed HIV-negative before starting and regularly during use, because drug-resistant HIV has developed in people with undetected HIV infection.
  • New or worsening kidney problems, including acute kidney failure and Fanconi syndrome, can occur.
  • Bone mineral density may decrease, and immune reconstitution syndrome can occur during HIV treatment.
  • Lactic acidosis and severe liver enlargement with fat have been reported.
Contraindications — who should not use it (verbatim)
Emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate for HIV-1 PrEP is contraindicated in individuals with unknown or positive HIV-1 status [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]. Emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate for HIV-1 PrEP is contraindicated in individuals with unknown or positive HIV-1 status. (4)
Warnings and precautions (verbatim excerpt)
Comprehensive management to reduce the risk of acquiring HIV-1 when emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate is used for HIV-1 PrEP: Use as part of a comprehensive prevention strategy including other prevention measures; strictly adhere to dosing schedule. (5.2) Management to reduce the risk of acquiring HIV-1 drug resistance when emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate is used for HIV-1 PrEP: refer to full prescribing information for additional detail. (5.2) New onset or worsening renal impairment: Can include acute renal failure and Fanconi syndrome. Avoid administering emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate with concurrent or recent use of nephrotoxic drugs. (5.3) Immune reconstitution syndrome during treatment of HIV-1 infection: May necessitate further evaluation and treatment. (5.4) Decreases in bone mineral density (BMD): Consider assessment of BMD in individuals with a history of pathologic fracture or other risk factors for osteoporosis or bone loss. (5.5) Lactic acidosis/severe hepatomegaly with steatosis: Discontinue emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate in individuals who develop symptoms or laboratory findings suggestive of lactic acidosis or pronounced hepatotoxicity. (5.6) 5.1 Severe Acute Exacerbation of Hepatitis B in Individuals with HBV Infection All individuals should be tested for the presence of chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) before or when initiating emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate [see Dosage and Administration (2.1)]. Severe acute exacerbations of hepatitis B (e.g., liver decompensation and liver failure) have been reported in HBV-infected individuals who have discontinued emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate. Individuals infected with HBV who discontinue emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate should be closely monitored with both clinical and laboratory follow-up for at least several months after stopping treatment. If appropriate, anti-hepatitis B therapy may be warranted, especially in individuals with advanced liver disease or cirrhosis, since posttreatment exacerbation of hepatitis may lead to hepatic decompensation and liver failure. HBV-uninfected individuals should be offered vaccination. 5.2 Comprehensive Management to Reduce the Risk of Sexually Transmitted Infections, Including HIV-1, and Development of HIV-1 Resistance When Emtricitabine and Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate is Used for HIV-1 PrEP Use emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate for HIV-1 PrEP to reduce the risk of HIV-1 infection as part of a comprehensive prevention strategy that includes other prevention measures, including adherence to daily administration and safer sex practices, including condoms, to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The time from initiation of emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate for HIV-1 PrEP to maximal protection against HIV-1 infection is unknown . Risk for HIV-1 acquisition includes behavioral, biological, or epidemiologic factors including but not limited to condomless sex, past or current STIs, self-identified HIV risk, having sexual partners of unknown HIV-1 viremic status, or sexual activity in a high prevalence area or network. Counsel individuals on the use of other prevention measures (e.g., consistent and correct condom use, knowledge of partner(s)' HIV-1 status, including viral suppression status, regular testing for STIs that can facilitate HIV-1 transmission). Inform uninfected individuals about and support their efforts in reducing sexual risk behavior. Use emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate to reduce the risk of acquiring HIV-1 only in individuals confirmed to be HIV-negative . HIV-1 resistance substitutions may emerge in individuals with undetected HIV-1 infection who are taking only emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, because emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate alone does not constitute a complete regimen for HIV-1 treatment [see Microbiology (12.4)]; therefore, care should be taken to minimize the risk of initiating or continuing emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate before confirming the individual is HIV-1 negative. Some HIV-1 tests only detect anti-HIV antibodies and may not identify HIV-1 during the acute stage of infection. Prior to initiating emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate for HIV-1 PrEP, ask seronegative individuals about recent (in past month) potential exposure events (e.g., condomless sex or condom breaking during sex with a partner of unknown HIV-1 status or unknown viremic status, or a recent STI), and evaluate for current or recent signs or symptoms consistent with acute HIV-1 infection (e.g., fever, fatigue, myalgia, skin rash). If recent (<1 month) exposures to HIV-1 are suspected or clinical symptoms consistent with acute HIV-1 infection are present, use a test approved or cleared by the FDA as an aid in the diagnosis of acute or primary HIV-1 infection. While using emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate for HIV-1 PrEP, HIV-1 testing should be repeated at least every 3 months, and upon diagnosis of any other STIs. If an HIV-1 test indicates possible HIV-1 infection, or if symptoms consistent with acute HIV-1 infection develop following a potential exposure event, convert the HIV-1 PrEP regimen to an HIV treatment regimen until negative infection status is confirmed using a test approved or cleared by the FDA as an aid in the diagnosis of acute or primary HIV-1 infection. Counsel HIV-1 uninfected individuals to strictly adhere to the once daily emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate dosing schedule. The effectiveness of emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate in reducing the risk of acquiring HIV-1 is strongly correlated with adherence, as demonstrated by measurable drug levels in clinical trials of emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate for HIV-1 PrEP. …
Side effects — opening of the label's adverse reactions section
The following adverse reactions are discussed in other sections of the labeling: Severe Acute Exacerbations of Hepatitis B in Patients with HBV Infection [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)]. New Onset or Worsening Renal Impairment [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)]. Immune Reconstitution Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)]. Bone Loss and Mineralization Defects [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)]. Lactic Acidosis/Severe Hepatomegaly with Steatosis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6)]. In HIV-1 infected patients, the most common adverse reactions (incidence greater than or equal to 10%) are diarrhea, nausea, fatigue, headache, dizziness, depression, insomnia, abnormal dreams, and rash. …
Drug interactions — opening of the label's section
Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate increases didanosine concentrations. Dose reduction and close monitoring for didanosine toxicity are warranted. (7.2) Coadministration decreases atazanavir concentrations. When coadministered with emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, use atazanavir given with ritonavir. (7.2) Coadministration of emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate with certain HIV-1 protease inhibitors or certain drugs to treat HCV increases tenofovir concentrations. Monitor for evidence of tenofovir toxicity. (7.2) Consult Full Prescribing Information prior to and during treatment for important drug interactions. (7.2) 7.1 Drugs Affecting Renal Function FTC and tenofovir are primarily excreted by the kidneys by a combination of glomerular filtration and active tubular secretion [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. …

This is not a complete list of warnings or side effects. Read the full label and talk to your prescriber or pharmacist. To report a side effect to the FDA, use MedWatch.

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FAQ

Emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate: frequently asked questions

+What is Emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate used for?

The label says emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate is used with other antiretroviral medicines to treat HIV-1 infection, and alone as PrEP to reduce the risk of sexually acquired HIV-1 in at-risk adults and teens. Weight limits apply.

+What are the most important warnings for Emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate?

The label has a boxed warning about severe hepatitis B flare-ups after stopping, and about drug-resistant HIV when used for PrEP in people with undetected HIV. It also warns about kidney problems, bone loss, immune reconstitution syndrome, and lactic acidosis with severe liver enlargement.

+What side effects are listed on the Emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate label?

The label says the most common side effects in people with HIV-1 were diarrhea, nausea, tiredness, headache, dizziness, depression, trouble sleeping, abnormal dreams and rash. The full list is in the official label, and your pharmacist can explain it.

+Who should not take Emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, according to the label?

The label says it should not be used for HIV-1 PrEP by people whose HIV-1 status is unknown or positive.

+What does Emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate look like?

Appearance depends on the manufacturer and strength. Examples from DailyMed product data: emtricitabine 200 mg / tenofovir disoproxil fumarate 300 mg tablet from Strides Pharma Science Limited: white, capsule, imprint "TE"; emtricitabine 200 mg / tenofovir disoproxil fumarate 300 mg tablet, film coated from Laurus Labs Limited: white to off white, capsule, imprint "LA49"; emtricitabine 200 mg / tenofovir disoproxil fumarate 300 mg tablet, film coated from Gilead Sciences, Inc: blue, oval, imprint "GILEAD 701". Your medicine may look different — always confirm with your pharmacist.

+Can Emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate be delivered to my home?

Many prescriptions can be filled by licensed mail-order pharmacies and delivered to your home; whether that is possible for a particular medicine depends on the medicine, your prescriber, your state and your coverage. Ask your prescriber or pharmacist. Our prescription delivery guide explains how home delivery generally works.

Sources

Label text is quoted from the Strides Pharma Science Limited label (label version effective January 8, 2026), retrieved October 20, 2026. Other manufacturers' labels for the same medicine may differ in wording.

The plain-English summaries were generated by software from the label text above and have not been reviewed by a clinician. If anything here differs from the label that came with your medicine, follow your label and your pharmacist.

Prescriptions.plus is an educational portal. We are not a pharmacy, law firm, medical provider, insurer or claims administrator, and nothing here is medical or legal advice. Educational purposes only. This page does not tell you whether to take a medicine or how much to take. Medical emergency? Call 911. Poison emergency: call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222.

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