Tenofovir Alafenamide
Tenofovir alafenamide is a prodrug of tenofovir, a nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) used as part of combination antiretroviral therapy for treating HIV-1 infection. It works by inhibiting the reverse transcriptase enzyme that HIV needs to replicate, helping to reduce viral load and improve immune function when used with other antiretrovirals.
Antiretroviral medication used in combination therapy for HIV treatment.
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
- J05AF13
- RxNorm
- 1721603
- Generic
- Tenofovir Alafenamide
- Class
- atc-j05
- Brands
- Genvoya, Odefsey, Descovy, Vemlidy, Biktarvy, Symtuza
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet
- 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.
Tenofovir alafenamide is indicated for the treatment of HIV-1 infection in combination with other antiretroviral agents. It is available as a single-agent product and in fixed-dose combinations such as BIKTARVY (with bictegravir and emtricitabine) and Descovy (with emtricitabine).
Tenofovir alafenamide is a nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitor prodrug that is converted to tenofovir in target cells. Once activated, it competes with the natural substrate to incorporate into viral DNA, causing chain termination and preventing HIV replication.
Tenofovir alafenamide is not a cure for HIV and must be used in combination with other antiretroviral drugs. It may cause kidney or bone density effects and should be used with caution in patients with pre-existing kidney impairment. Patients should be monitored for lactic acidosis and hepatomegaly. It should not be used as monotherapy.
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