Emtricitabine, Rilpivirine, and Tenofovir
Complera is a brand-name combination antiretroviral medication used to treat HIV-1 infection in adults. It combines three antiviral agents that work together to suppress HIV replication. This medication is typically prescribed as part of a complete treatment regimen for patients who have not previously received other HIV treatments.
Complera is a brand-name HIV medication combining three antiretroviral drugs to help control HIV infection in treatment-naive adults.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 1145803
- Generic
- Complera
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Complera is indicated for the treatment of HIV-1 infection in treatment-naive adults with viral loads of 100,000 copies/mL or less. It should be used as part of a complete antiretroviral regimen and is not appropriate for patients with suspected or confirmed resistance to any of its components.
Complera contains emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (both nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors) along with rilpivirine (a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor). These agents work by inhibiting reverse transcriptase enzymes, which are essential for HIV replication, thereby reducing viral load and allowing immune system recovery.
Complera must be taken with a meal for proper absorption. Patients should be tested for hepatitis B before starting treatment, as discontinuation may cause hepatitis flare-ups. Common side effects may include depression, headache, rash, and abnormal dreams. Patients should report any signs of lactic acidosis or hepatotoxicity. Resistance to rilpivirine may develop if treatment fails.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy