Emtricitabine
Emtricitabine is an antiretroviral medication used in the treatment of HIV infection. It belongs to the nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) class of drugs and works by inhibiting the reverse transcriptase enzyme that HIV needs to replicate. It is typically used as part of combination antiretroviral therapy.
Emtricitabine is an HIV medication that prevents viral replication when used with other antiretrovirals.
This medication carries a boxed (black box) warning — the strongest type of FDA warning. Review the full prescribing information before use.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- J05AF09
- RxNorm
- 276237
- Generic
- Emtricitabine
- Class
- atc-j05
- Brands
- Complera, Stribild, Genvoya, Odefsey, Descovy, Biktarvy, Symtuza, Emtriva, Truvada, Atripla
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet, solution, capsule
- 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.
Treatment of HIV-1 infection in adults and children, typically as part of combination antiretroviral therapy. Often formulated with other HIV medications such as tenofovir.
As a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor, emtricitabine interferes with HIV replication by incorporating into viral DNA and causing chain termination, preventing the virus from multiplying.
Should be used as part of a complete antiretroviral regimen, not as monotherapy. May cause lactic acidosis or hepatomegaly in some patients. Not a cure for HIV.
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