Tenofovir Disoproxil
Viread is a prescription antiviral medication containing tenofovir disoproxil fumarate used to treat HIV infection and chronic hepatitis B virus. It is typically used in combination with other antiretroviral drugs for HIV management. This medication requires ongoing medical supervision and regular monitoring.
Viread is an antiretroviral medication used to treat HIV and hepatitis B infections, working by inhibiting viral replication.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 323726
- Generic
- Viread
- 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.
Viread is indicated for the treatment of HIV-1 and HIV-2 infection in adults and pediatric patients, and for chronic hepatitis B in adults. For HIV, it is used as part of combination antiretroviral therapy. For hepatitis B, it is used when the infection has shown evidence of active viral replication.
Viread is a nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NtRTI). It works by competing with the natural substrate and being incorporated into viral DNA, which terminates the DNA chain and prevents further viral replication. This helps reduce the viral load in patients with HIV or hepatitis B.
Viread is not a cure for HIV or hepatitis B. It should be used exactly as prescribed and should not be stopped without medical consultation. Common side effects may include nausea, diarrhea, and headache. The medication can cause kidney toxicity and decreases in bone mineral density, requiring periodic monitoring of kidney function and bone health. Resistance may develop if used improperly. Patients should avoid missing doses to reduce the risk of resistance.
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 August 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy