Tafero Em Tablets - Expiration Date: 24 Months

Tafero EM is a medication commonly used in the treatment and prevention of Human Immunodeficiency Virus 1 (HIV-1) infection. It is a fixed-dose combination tablet containing two active ingredients:


Emtricitabine (FTC): This is a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI).

Tenofovir Alafenamide (TAF): This is a nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NtRTI), which is a newer prodrug of tenofovir.

Here's a breakdown of its description:

1. Mechanism of Action:
Both Emtricitabine and Tenofovir Alafenamide work by inhibiting the reverse transcriptase enzyme, which is crucial for HIV to replicate. They act as "analogs" that get incorporated into the viral DNA chain, leading to its premature termination and preventing the virus from multiplying and spreading in the body. TAF is designed to deliver tenofovir more efficiently to the target cells, resulting in lower doses and potentially fewer side effects compared to older tenofovir formulations (like Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate - TDF).


2. Uses:

Treatment of HIV-1 infection: Tafero EM is used in adults and adolescents (typically aged 12 years and older, weighing at least 35 kg) as part of a combination antiretroviral therapy (cART). It helps to lower the viral load (amount of HIV in the blood) and improve the immune system's function, thereby reducing the risk of HIV-related complications and disease progression.


Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP): It can also be used to reduce the risk of acquiring HIV infection in individuals who are at high risk, particularly adult and adolescent men who have intimate with men.

3. Dosage and Administration:

The typical dosage is one tablet taken once daily, with or without food.

It should be swallowed whole with water and not crushed or chewed.

Adherence to the prescribed dosing schedule is crucial for effectiveness and to prevent the development of drug resistance.

4. Manufacturer:
Tafero EM is manufactured by Hetero Healthcare Ltd. in India.

5. Side Effects:
While generally well-tolerated, Tafero EM can cause side effects.

Common side effects (usually mild and temporary): Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, rash, fatigue, stomach pain, flatulence, abnormal dreams.

Less common but possible side effects: Weight gain or changes in body fat distribution, changes in liver enzymes, insomnia or sleep disturbances, joint pain.

Rare but serious side effects (require immediate medical attention): Lactic acidosis (buildup of lactic acid in the blood, symptoms include unusual weakness, muscle pain, cold hands and feet, trouble breathing), severe liver problems (yellow skin and eyes, dark urine, light-colored stools, loss of appetite), severe kidney problems (reduced urine output, swelling in feet, ankles, or legs), severe allergic reactions (swelling of face, tongue, lips or throat, hives, itching).