Health Library

Lamivudine/tenofovir (By mouth)

Lamivudine (la-MIV-ue-deen), Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate (ten-OF-oh-vir dye-soe-PROX-il FUE-ma-rate)

Treats HIV infection. HIV causes AIDS. This medicine does not cure HIV or AIDS, but combinations of drugs may slow the progress of the disease.

Brand Name(s):

Cimduo, Temixys

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet

• Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
• Do not stop using this medicine without checking first with your doctor. If you stop the medicine even briefly, the virus may become harder to treat. Contact your doctor or pharmacist when your supply is running low so you do not run out.
• Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
• Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
• Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Store the medicine in its original bottle and keep it tightly closed.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Do not take Temixys™ together with adefovir.
• Some medicines can affect how lamivudine/tenofovir works. Tell your doctor if you are using any of the following:
  • Acyclovir, atazanavir/ritonavir, cidofovir, darunavir/ritonavir, didanosine, ganciclovir, gentamicin, ledipasvir/sofosbuvir, lopinavir/ritonavir, sofosbuvir/velpatasvir, sofosbuvir/velpatasvir/voxilaprevir, sorbitol, trimethoprim, valacyclovir, valganciclovir
  • NSAID or pain reliever medicine

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Do not breastfeed. You can spread HIV or AIDS to your baby through your breast milk.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, or if you have kidney disease, liver disease (including hepatitis B or C), or a history of fractures or bone problems (including osteoporosis), or pancreas problems.
• This medicine may cause the following problems:
  • Lactic acidosis (too much acid in the blood)
  • Liver problems
  • Worsening of hepatitis B infection (if the medicine is stopped)
  • New or worsening kidney problem
  • Pancreatitis (swelling of the pancreas)
  • Lower bone mineral density
• Your immune system may get stronger when you start using HIV medicines. This could cause a hidden infection in your body to become active. Tell your doctor right away if you notice any changes in your health.
• Always practice safe sex, even if your partner also has HIV. If you stop taking this medicine or do not take it as prescribed, you may spread HIV to others. Do not reuse or share needles, or other items, that may have blood or body fluids on them.
• Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Bone, joint, or muscle pain
• Change in how much or how often you urinate, cloudy or bloody urine
• Dark urine or pale stools, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach pain, yellow skin or eyes
• Fast or troubled breathing, lightheadedness, severe weakness, tiredness, confusion
• Sudden and severe stomach pain, fever

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Weight gain around your neck, upper back, breast, or waist

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 9/6/2024