Emtricitabine, tenofovir alafenamide
Descovy is a brand-name prescription medication combining two antiretroviral drugs, emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide, used to treat HIV-1 infection as part of combination therapy and for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in at-risk adults and adolescents. As a nucleoside/nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitor combination, it works by blocking an enzyme the virus needs to replicate, helping to reduce viral load or prevent infection. This medication requires a prescription and is not a cure for HIV.
Descovy is an antiretroviral medication used to treat HIV infection and prevent HIV transmission in high-risk individuals.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 1747692
- Generic
- Descovy
- 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.
Descovy is indicated for treatment of HIV-1 infection in adults and pediatric patients weighing at least 35 kg (in combination with other antiretrovirals) and for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to reduce the risk of sexually acquired HIV-1 in at-risk adults and adolescents weighing at least 35 kg who are HIV-negative.
Descovy contains two reverse transcriptase inhibitors that work by blocking the action of reverse transcriptase, an enzyme HIV needs to copy its genetic material and replicate. Emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide are incorporated into the viral DNA chain, causing chain termination and preventing further viral replication.
Descovy must not be used alone for HIV treatment and should be combined with other antiretroviral agents. It does not cure HIV or AIDS and should be used as part of a comprehensive prevention or treatment plan. Regular monitoring of kidney function and bone density may be recommended. Patients should be tested for HIV before starting PrEP and regularly thereafter. Common side effects may include nausea, diarrhea, headache, and fatigue. Patients with severe kidney impairment may need dosage adjustments or alternative treatments.
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