WARNING

Hepatitis B virus infection (HBV; an ongoing liver infection) should not be treated with elvitegravir, cobicistat, emtricitabine, or tenofovir. If you suspect you may have HBV, let your doctor know. Before you start your therapy with elvitegravir, cobicistat, emtricitabine, and tenofovir, your doctor may do a test to determine if you have HBV. When you stop taking elvitegravir, cobicistat, emtricitabine, and tenofovir if you have HBV, your condition could abruptly get worse. For several months after you stop using this medicine, your doctor will check on you and place lab testing to see if your HBV has gotten worse.

Keep all of your appointments with your physician and the lab. To monitor your body’s reaction to elvitegravir, cobicistat, emtricitabine, and tenofovir, your doctor will prescribe specific tests both before and during your therapy.

The dangers of using elvitegravir, cobicistat, emtricitabine, and tenofovir should be discussed with your doctor.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Genvoya is a prescription medication that is used to treat HIV-1 infection in adults and children aged 12 years and older who weigh at least 77 pounds (35 kilograms). It is a combination product that contains four active ingredients: elvitegravir, cobicistat, emtricitabine, and tenofovir alafenamide.

The purpose of Genvoya is to inhibit the replication of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), thereby reducing the amount of virus in the body and slowing down the progression of HIV infection. It is classified as an antiretroviral therapy (ART) and belongs to the class of drugs known as integrase strand transfer inhibitors.

How should this medicine be used?

Genvoya should be used exactly as prescribed by a healthcare professional. The recommended dosage for adults and pediatric patients weighing at least 77 pounds is one tablet taken orally once daily with food. It is important to take Genvoya consistently and at the same time each day to ensure its effectiveness.

Before starting Genvoya, it is essential to discuss your medical history, including any other medications, supplements, or health conditions you have, with your healthcare provider. They will determine if Genvoya is the appropriate treatment option for you and provide instructions specific to your situation.

Other uses for this medicine

Genvoya is a prescription medication that contains a combination of four different drugs: elvitegravir, cobicistat, emtricitabine, and tenofovir alafenamide. It is primarily used as an antiretroviral therapy for the treatment of HIV-1 infection in adults and pediatric patients weighing at least 25 kg (55 lbs).

Aside from its primary use, Genvoya may also be prescribed for off-label purposes or in clinical trials for other conditions. However, any off-label use should be discussed and decided upon by a qualified healthcare professional.

What special precautions should I follow?

Regarding precautions, it’s important to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider and the medication’s packaging. Here are some general precautions to consider when taking Genvoya:

• Medical History: Inform your healthcare provider about any pre-existing medical conditions, such as kidney problems, liver disease, or bone problems. Genvoya may require dose adjustments or additional monitoring in these cases.
• Allergies: Share any known allergies to medications, including components of Genvoya, with your healthcare provider.
• Drug Interactions: Genvoya can interact with other medications, including over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and herbal products. Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are currently taking to avoid potential interactions.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Genvoya may not be suitable for use during pregnancy, and alternative options may need to be considered. Additionally, Genvoya may pass into breast milk, so breastfeeding while taking this medication is generally not recommended.
• Side Effects: Be aware of potential side effects associated with Genvoya, such as nausea, diarrhea, headache, fatigue, and changes in liver or kidney function. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects, consult your healthcare provider.
• Adherence: It’s important to take Genvoya exactly as prescribed, at the recommended dosage and schedule, to ensure its effectiveness in treating HIV infection. Skipping doses or altering the regimen without medical guidance can lead to treatment failure and the development of drug-resistant HIV strains.

Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for personalized advice and comprehensive information about the specific precautions and considerations for your situation when taking Genvoya.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Genvoya is a medication used for the treatment of HIV-1 infection in adults and pediatric patients weighing at least 25 kilograms. It contains a combination of four active ingredients: elvitegravir, cobicistat, emtricitabine, and tenofovir alafenamide.

When taking Genvoya, there are no specific dietary restrictions that you need to follow. However, it is generally recommended to take the medication with food to enhance its absorption and reduce the risk of stomach upset. Therefore, you can take Genvoya with or without food, according to your preference. If you experience any gastrointestinal side effects, taking it with a meal might help alleviate those symptoms.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Genvoya, it is important to take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is already close to the time for your next scheduled dose, it is best to skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one.

It’s important to try your best to take Genvoya consistently and as prescribed to ensure its effectiveness in managing your HIV infection. If you frequently forget doses or have difficulty adhering to your medication schedule, it’s recommended to speak with your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance and support to help you maintain proper adherence to your treatment regimen.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Like any medication, Genvoya can cause side effects in some individuals. Common side effects of Genvoya may include:

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Trouble sleeping (insomnia)
• Abnormal dreams
• Dizziness
• Rash
• Abdominal pain
• Changes in liver function tests

These side effects are generally mild and may subside on their own as your body adjusts to the medication. However, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider if any of these side effects persist or become bothersome.

In addition to the common side effects, Genvoya can also cause more serious side effects in some cases. These may include:

• Kidney problems: Genvoya may cause a decline in kidney function or other kidney-related issues. Regular monitoring of kidney function is necessary while taking this medication.
• Bone loss: Genvoya may lead to bone loss or osteoporosis, which can increase the risk of fractures. It’s important to discuss any concerns about bone health with your healthcare provider.
• Lactic acidosis: This is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition characterized by the buildup of lactic acid in the blood. Symptoms may include weakness, unusual muscle pain, difficulty breathing, stomach pain with nausea or vomiting, and cold or blue hands and feet. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience these symptoms.
• Liver problems: Genvoya may cause liver-related side effects, including hepatotoxicity (liver damage). Regular monitoring of liver function is necessary while taking this medication.

It’s important to note that this is not an exhaustive list of all possible side effects. Different individuals may experience different side effects, and some individuals may not experience any side effects at all. If you have specific concerns about Genvoya or its potential side effects, it is best to consult with your healthcare provider for more personalized information and guidance.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Here’s what you should know about the storage and disposal of Genvoya:

• Storage: Genvoya should be stored at room temperature, typically between 68°F and 77°F (20°C and 25°C). It is important to keep the medication in its original container to protect it from moisture. Avoid exposing Genvoya to excessive heat or direct sunlight.
• Disposal: When it comes to disposing of Genvoya or any other medications, it is recommended to follow the guidelines set by your local waste management authority or pharmacist. Do not flush the medication down the toilet or drain unless instructed to do so. Proper disposal helps prevent environmental contamination and accidental ingestion by others.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of an emergency or overdose situation, take the following steps:

• Contact emergency services: If you suspect an overdose or are experiencing severe side effects, call emergency services immediately or go to the nearest emergency room.
• Inform healthcare professionals: When seeking emergency medical assistance, make sure to inform the healthcare professionals about the specific medication involved (Genvoya) and provide details about the dose, timing, and any other relevant information.
• Follow medical advice: The healthcare professionals will assess the situation and provide appropriate medical care. It is important to follow their instructions and cooperate fully to ensure the best possible outcome.

What other information should I know?

Here are a few additional points to keep in mind:

• Adherence to treatment: Genvoya is used to manage HIV infection and should be taken exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Strict adherence to the recommended dosage and schedule is crucial for effective treatment.
• Side effects: Genvoya may cause side effects, which can vary from person to person. Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, headache, and trouble sleeping. It is essential to report any unusual or severe side effects to your healthcare provider.
• Drug interactions: Genvoya can interact with other medications, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements. Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
• Regular monitoring: Regular monitoring of your HIV infection, liver function, kidney function, and bone density may be necessary while taking Genvoya. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding monitoring and follow-up appointments.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, it is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits of Genvoya with your healthcare provider.

Remember, this information is not exhaustive, and it’s always best to consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for specific guidance and advice regarding the use, storage, disposal, and potential emergencies related to Genvoya.