Emtricitabine (Oral Route)

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Emtricitabine (Oral Route)

US Brand Names

Description

Emtricitabine is used together with other medicines to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). HIV is the virus that causes acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS).

HIV infection destroys CD4 (T) cells, which are important to the immune system in your body. The immune system helps fight infection. After a large number of T cells are destroyed, acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) develops.

Emtricitabine is a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI). It blocks HIV reverse transcriptase, a chemical in your body (enzyme) that is needed for HIV to multiply. This medicine may lower the amount of HIV in your blood (viral load). It may also help to increase the number of T cells, also called CD4 cells. Lowering the amount of HIV in your blood lowers the chance of having problems when your immune system is weak.

Emtricitabine will not cure or prevent HIV infection or AIDS; however, it helps keep HIV from reproducing and appears to slow down the destruction of the immune system.

Emtricitabine will not keep you or your child from spreading HIV to other people. People who receive this medicine may continue to have the problems usually related to AIDS or HIV disease.

This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription.

This product is available in the following dosage forms:

• Capsule
• Solution

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