Complera: A Complete Drug for HIV Treatment Complera, also known by its generic name, emtricitabine/rilpivirine/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, is a medication that is used as part of a comprehensive treatment regimen for HIV-1 infection. It is a combination drug that consists of three antiretroviral agents, namely, emtricitabine, rilpivirine, and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate. It belongs to the class of drugs known as non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs) and nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs). Uses and Dosage of Complera: Complera is recommended for use in adults, aged 18 years and above, who have not yet received antiretroviral therapy (ART) for HIV-1 infection, or in those who have HIV-1 RNA levels of less than or equal to 100,000 copies/mL and have no known resistance to any of the three antiretroviral drugs in Complera. The drug is also used as a maintenance treatment in patients who have achieved viral suppression on their current ART regimen with no history of treatment failure or resistance. The recommended initial dose of Complera is one tablet once daily, with a meal. The meal should contain at least 400 calories and should not be low in fat. Taking the medication with food increases the absorption of the medication, which, in turn, enhances its efficacy. Patient Demographic: Complera is not recommended for use in patients under the age of 18 years. Additionally, Complera is not suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women. It is recommended that women of reproductive age use an effective method of contraception while taking Complera. Patients with renal impairment or hepatic impairment should exercise caution when taking Complera. Side Effects of Complera: As with all medications, Complera has potential side effects. The most commonly reported side effects are: - Headache - Dizziness - Nausea - Diarrhea - Fatigue - Depression However, these side effects are usually mild and resolve on their own within a few days. Some patients may experience more severe side effects such as: - Skin rash - Liver problems - Changes in blood fat levels or bone density - Kidney damage - Immune system changes - Serious allergic reactions If any of these side effects occur, patients should contact their healthcare provider promptly. Drug Interactions of Complera: Complera should not be taken with other medications that contain the same or similar active ingredients as it may increase the risk of developing side effects or toxicity. Additionally, Complera should not be taken with drugs that are known to interact with any of the three active ingredients in Complera. Some drugs that interact with Complera include: - Rifabutin - Anticonvulsants - St. John's Wort - Anticoagulants - Some antibiotics Patients should inform their healthcare providers of all the medications they are taking before starting Complera. Generic Options of Complera: Complera is a combination drug that is only available in brand-name form. However, all three active ingredients in Complera are available as individual generic drugs, which may be substituted for their brand-name counterparts. These drugs are: - Emtricitabine - Rilpivirine - Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate In conclusion, Complera is a combination medication used as part of a comprehensive treatment regimen for HIV-1 infection. It is recommended for use in adults who have not yet received ART or those who have achieved viral suppression. Like all medications, Complera has potential side effects and drug interactions and should only be taken as directed by a healthcare provider.