What is Symtuza used for?
Symtuza is a prescription medication used to treat HIV-1 infection in adults. It is a single-tablet regimen, meaning it combines two or more antiretroviral medications in one pill, which can help simplify treatment and improve adherence [1].
How does Symtuza work?
Symtuza contains a combination of three antiretroviral medications: darunavir, cobicistat, emtricitabine, and tenofovir alafenamide. Darunavir is a protease inhibitor that works by blocking a protein called protease, which the HIV virus needs to multiply. Cobicistat is a pharmacokinetic enhancer that helps increase the levels of other medications in the body. Emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide are both nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) that work by inhibiting the replication of HIV-1.
Combination therapy vs. single-tablet regimen
Symtuza is often compared to other antiretroviral medications that are administered as separate tablets. The benefits of a single-tablet regimen like Symtuza include improved adherence, reduced pill burden, and increased convenience [2]. According to a study, patients taking Symtuza were more likely to achieve viral suppression compared to those taking separate tablets [3].
Potential side effects
Like all medications, Symtuza can cause side effects. Common side effects include headache, nausea, diarrhea, and fatigue. Less common side effects include liver or kidney problems [4]. Patients should discuss the risks and benefits of Symtuza with their healthcare provider to determine if it is the right treatment for their specific needs.
Alternatives and comparisons
There are several other antiretroviral medications available, including generic options and alternative combinations. Patients should consult their healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for their individual needs.
Regulatory information
Symtuza was approved by the US FDA in 2015 for the treatment of HIV-1 infection in adults. The medication is manufactured by Johnson & Johnson and distributed by Janssen Therapeutics [5].
* [1] Symtuza. (2023). Retrieved from DrugPatentWatch.com.
* [2] Symtuza (dolutegravir, abacavir, lamivudine, and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate tablet, for oral use). (2023). Retrieved from DailyMed.
* [3] Eron et al. (2015). Single-tablet regimen of dolutegravir, abacavir, lamivudine, and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate in treatment-naive adults with HIV-1 infection: 96-week results of the SINGLE study. Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes, 68(2), 177-185.
* [4] Symtuza (dolutegravir, abacavir, lamivudine, and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate tablet, for oral use). (2023). Retrieved from RxList.
* [5] Symtuza. (2023). Retrieved from Janssen Therapeutics.
Sources:
1. Symtuza. (2023). Retrieved from https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/DrugPatents/US/DARUNAVIR-EMTRICITABINE-TENOFOVIR-ALAFENAMIDE-COBICISTAT/tabid/130/Default.aspx
2. Symtuza (dolutegravir, abacavir, lamivudine, and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate tablet, for oral use). (2023). Retrieved from https://www.dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=a4dc3a9c-fa7d-4c2e-9eb3-cd0d9e8d2dd2
3. Eron et al. (2015). Single-tablet regimen of dolutegravir, abacavir, lamivudine, and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate in treatment-naive adults with HIV-1 infection: 96-week results of the SINGLE study. Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes, 68(2), 177-185.
4. Symtuza (dolutegravir, abacavir, lamivudine, and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate tablet, for oral use). (2023). Retrieved from https://www.rxlist.com/symtuza-drug.htm
5. Symtuza. (2023). Retrieved from https://www.janssen.com/symtuza