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Biktarvy

Biktarvy

Bictegravir · Emtricitabine · Tenofovir Alafenamide

Bictegravir and emtricitabine tablets for HIV-1 infection. Two antiretrovirals work together to stop the virus from copying itself and spreading.

Route
Oral use
Form
Tablet
Strengths
50mg + 200mg + 25mg

Biktarvy is the reference name. You receive a generic with the same active ingredient and strength.

No prescription needed: we place your order for Biktarvy on your behalf.

Alternative names
bictegravir, emtricitabine, tenofovir alafenamide
Therapeutic class
Integrase Inhibitor and Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitor Combination
Pharmacological class
Antiretroviral Combination
Contraindications
concurrent dofetilide use; hypersensitivity to any component
Minor side effects
diarrhoea; nausea; headache
Moderate side effects
insomnia; fatigue; elevated serum lipids
Dosage forms
Tablet
Administration route
Oral use
Originator
Gilead Sciences
Onset time
2–4 weeks
Duration
24 hours
Storage instructions
Store below 30°C.
Drug interactions
Rifampin; St. John's Wort; Antacids
Age restrictions
Approved for adults and children over two years.
Serious side effects

lactic acidosis, requires immediate medical attention; severe hepatomegaly with steatosis, requires immediate medical attention

Patient summary

Bictegravir and emtricitabine tablets for HIV-1 infection. Two antiretrovirals work together to stop the virus from copying itself and spreading.

Mechanism of action

Blocks viral integrase and reverse transcriptase activities to prevent host chromosome entry and viral generation.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Pregnancy: Suitability during pregnancy depends on the specific medicine and individual circumstances. Confirm with a qualified clinician or pharmacist before use. Breastfeeding: Not recommended in HIV-positive patients.

FAQ

Is the Biktarvy sold here the original brand?

No. Biktarvy is the original brand, made by Gilead Sciences, and Direct Meds uses the name to identify the medicine: you receive a generic with the same active ingredients (bictegravir, emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide) at the same strength. The generic brand and manufacturer depend on available stock.

How much does Biktarvy cost in South Africa?

The price varies with pack size. Biktarvy comes in a 50mg + 200mg + 25mg strength, in packs of 10 tablets, and the price of every option is shown above. Prices are set in US dollars and converted.

Payment and prices →

What is Biktarvy used for?

Biktarvy contains bictegravir, emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide, used for human immunodeficiency virus 1 (HIV-1) infection.

How long does Biktarvy take to work?

Bictegravir, emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide usually start to work within 2 to 4 weeks. This varies from person to person.

Does Biktarvy have side effects?

Yes. The common side effects of bictegravir, emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide are diarrhoea, nausea and headache. Less common ones include insomnia, fatigue and elevated serum lipids. Serious but less common side effects include lactic acidosis and severe hepatomegaly with steatosis, which need urgent medical attention.

Which medicines interact with Biktarvy?

Bictegravir, emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide can interact with rifampicin, St John's wort and antacids. Tell your doctor or pharmacist about every medicine you take before you start taking Biktarvy.

Can I buy Biktarvy over the counter in South Africa?

Online, yes: Direct Meds does not ask for a prescription to order Biktarvy. We are a broker, not a dispensing pharmacy. We arrange orders and delivery with our affiliated supplier on your behalf.

Ordering without a prescription →

Do you deliver Biktarvy to South Africa?

Yes. Our affiliated supplier delivers across South Africa. Estimated delivery is 7 days with Express Delivery, which includes online tracking, or up to 3 weeks with Regular Delivery.

How ordering works →

What you will receive

Biktarvy names the medicine you are looking for. What ships is a generic version of it.

  • A generic containing Bictegravir / Emtricitabine / Tenofovir Alafenamide at the strength you pick.
  • Which generic brand and maker ships depends on stock and destination.
  • Check the active ingredient, strength, form, pack, seal, batch and expiry when it arrives.

How we compare medicine brands and generics