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Home > Drug Category > AIDS Medications, HIV Treatments > Symtuza and Equivalent

Symtuza Information

Symtuza (Cobicistat/Darunavir/Emtricitabine/Tenofovir) is a complete prescription of combined antiretroviral agents used for managing human immunodeficiency virus 1 (HIV-1) infection. It is typically used in adults and adolescents who weigh at least 40 kg and have not previously developed resistance to its components or who already have viral levels under control on a stable treatment regimen. HIV infects white blood cells called CD4+ T cells, which are essential for the immune system. Over time, untreated HIV can lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), the most advanced stage of the infection. Symtuza contains four active ingredients: darunavir, a protease inhibitor; cobicistat, a pharmacokinetic booster; emtricitabine, a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI); and tenofovir alafenamide, a nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NtRTI). This multi-pronged approach is what makes it so effective. Darunavir blocks the protease enzyme the virus needs to mature, while emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide stop the reverse transcriptase enzyme that HIV uses to copy its genetic material. Cobicistat, though not an antiviral, boosts darunavir levels by slowing its breakdown in the liver. Together, these actions work to prevent the virus from replicating, helping to suppress the viral load to undetectable levels and improve the health of the individual with HIV. This combination antiretroviral drug also helps to simplify drug adherence with once-daily dosing.

Symtuza Side Effects

Some mild side effects of this medicine include diarrhea, fatigue, muscle aches, nausea, and mild body rash. Contact your doctor if these mild side effects persist or worsen. Stop taking this medicine and contact your doctor immediately if you experience any serious side effects, including the following:
• Allergic reactions such as breathing difficulties, hives, swelling of the face, lips, or throat;
• Bone pain, increased fractures;
• Easy bruising or bleeding;
• Fever, chill, rigor, cough, body rash, and other symptoms of immune system changes;
• High blood sugar with symptoms like frequent urination, increased thirst;
• Kidney problems with symptoms like decreased urination, nausea, vomiting;
• Lactic acidosis with symptoms like weight loss, fatigue, generally feeling ill, abdominal pain;
• Liver problems with symptoms such as yellowing of skin or eyes, darkened urine, light-coloured stools, nausea, and vomiting;
• Pancreatitis with symptoms like abdominal pain on the upper left side and back pain;
• Severe skin reactions, such as itchy skin rash and blisters

Inform your doctor about any other side effects you notice that are not listed here.

Symtuza Precautions

Do not use this medicine if you are allergic to the active and inactive ingredients in Symtuza. Before using this medication, ensure you inform your doctor about any medical conditions you previously or currently have, including the following:
• Bleeding disorders;
• Bone problems such as osteoporosis;
• Diabetes;
• Kidney disease;
• Liver disease, including hepatitis B infection;
• Pancreas conditions

Do not operate machines or drive if you feel dizzy after taking Symtuza, as it can cause dizziness. This medicine should not be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Contact your doctor immediately if you become pregnant while taking this medicine. Women taking this medicine should not breastfeed. Symtuza is not suitable for use in children younger than 12 years or weighing less than 40 kg. This antiretroviral medication may interact with other drugs or substances, including alfuzosin, amiodarone, carbamazepine, colchicine, rifampin, and sildenafil. Therefore, inform your healthcare provider about all the medicines, including herbal supplements, that you are taking before using Symtuza to prevent potential drug interactions.

Take Symtuza tablets orally as prescribed by your doctor or as stated in the medication pack. The usual dose is one tablet taken by mouth once daily with food. Swallow this medication whole with each dose, avoiding the need to chew or break the tablets. Take this medication every day as prescribed for effective suppression of the viral infection. Also, avoid taking more than the prescribed daily dose to minimize the risk of side effects. Store this medication in its original container at room temperature, protect it from moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Symtuza?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Symtuza.