Tranbit

Indications

Tenofovir alafenamide is used to treat long-term (chronic) hepatitis B infection in adults and in children aged 12 and over who weigh at least 35 kg. It is also an ingredient of several combination medicines for HIV.

How It Works

It is an antiviral that is changed inside liver cells into its active form. This blocks the enzyme the hepatitis B virus uses to copy itself, lowering the amount of virus and protecting the liver from further damage. It does not cure the infection, so treatment is usually long-term.

Dosage and Administration

Hepatitis B, adults and children 12 years and over (at least 35 kg): 25 mg once a day with food. Take it at the same time each day and do not miss doses. In HIV it is used only within combination products, as prescribed.

Interactions

• Rifampicin, Rifabutin, Carbamazepine, Oxcarbazepine, Phenytoin, Phenobarbital and St John's wort can lower its levels and should be avoided or used only on specialist advice.
• Do not take with other medicines containing Tenofovir disoproxil or with Adefovir.
• Tell the doctor about all medicines, as some HIV and hepatitis C medicines also interact.

Contraindications

Allergy to tenofovir alafenamide or any ingredient of the product.

Side Effects

Common:

• Headache, tiredness and dizziness.
• Nausea, stomach pain, diarrhoea or wind.
• Rash or itching.
• Rises in liver enzymes and blood cholesterol.

Get urgent medical help for yellow eyes or skin, dark urine, pale stools, severe stomach pain or vomiting, confusion or extreme tiredness (signs that hepatitis is flaring, especially after stopping treatment), fast deep breathing with muscle pain and weakness, or signs of a serious allergic reaction.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Use in pregnancy only if the doctor advises it; doctors may use it to protect mother and baby. Tell the doctor if you are pregnant or planning pregnancy. Discuss breastfeeding with the doctor before starting.

Precautions and Warnings

• An HIV test is advised before starting, because using it alone in untreated HIV can cause HIV drug resistance.
• Do not stop it without medical advice; hepatitis can flare severely after stopping.
• Regular liver tests and kidney checks are needed.
• It does not stop hepatitis B from spreading to others; use condoms and do not share razors or needles.
• Tell the doctor about kidney disease or co-infection with hepatitis C or D.

Overdose

There is little experience with overdose. If too much is taken, seek medical advice; treatment is supportive.

Therapeutic Class

Antiviral, nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitor.

Storage

Store below 30°C in the original container, kept tightly closed in a dry place away from light and out of the reach of children.