Symfi: A Comprehensive Guide on Dosage, Applications, Demographics, Side Effects, Interactions and Generic Options Symfi is an antiviral medication used to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections in adults and children at least 12 years old. Symfi is a combination of three active ingredients: efavirenz, lamivudine, and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate. It belongs to the class of Non-Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors (NNRTI) and Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors (NRTI), which means it inhibits the enzymes that HIV needs to multiply in the body. Dosage Symfi is available in tablets of three strengths, 400/300/300 mg, 600/300/300 mg, and 800/300/300 mg. The tablet strength is based on the amount of efavirenz followed by the individual strengths of lamivudine and tenofovir. The dosage of Symfi depends on the patient's age, weight, medical history, and viral load. The recommended initial dose is one tablet taken once a day at bedtime. Patients with renal dysfunction or those taking certain medications may require dosage adjustments. Applications Symfi is used to treat HIV infections in adults and children. It is not a cure for HIV infection. It lowers the viral load and increases the number of CD4 T cells, which are vital in maintaining a healthy immune system. Symfi reduces the risk of developing acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) related illnesses and prolongs the life span of an HIV-positive individual. Symfi is effective only when taken as prescribed and in combination with other antiretroviral medications. Demographics Symfi is approved for use in adults and children who weigh at least 40 kg (88 pounds) and are at least 12 years old. Symfi is not recommended for use in patients with severe hepatic impairment since it may increase the risk of severe adverse reactions. Symfi in combination with other antiretroviral medications has been shown to be effective in treating HIV-positive adults of all ages and genders. There are limited data on the safe and effective use of Symfi in children under the age of 12. Side Effects Symfi may cause mild to severe side effects in some patients. The most common side effects include dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, difficulty sleeping, rash, and abnormal dreams. Symfi may also cause serious adverse reactions such as liver toxicity, severe skin reactions, kidney dysfunction, and lactic acidosis. Patients experiencing any of these symptoms should seek medical attention immediately. Symfi may also cause changes in mood, depression, suicidal ideation, and aggression. Therefore, patients should report any changes in mood or behavior to their healthcare provider. Interactions Symfi may interact with other medications, including over-the-counter medications and herbal supplements. Certain medications such as rifampin, other NNRTI, proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs), histamine H2-receptor blockers, and anticonvulsants may reduce the effectiveness of Symfi. Symfi should not be taken with St. John's wort, as it may reduce the concentration of efavirenz in the blood, increasing the risk of treatment failure. Patients should inform their healthcare provider about all medications they are taking before starting Symfi. Generic Options Symfi is a brand name medication, and there is no generic version currently available. However, there are other combination medications available that contain the same active ingredients as Symfi and are equally as effective in treating HIV infection. These medications include Atripla, which also contains efavirenz, lamivudine, and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, and Triumeq, which contains abacavir, dolutegravir, and lamivudine. Conclusion Symfi is an effective treatment for HIV infection in adults and children. It is a combination medication, which means it contains three active ingredients that work together to reduce the viral load and increase the number of CD4 T cells. The dosage of Symfi depends on the patient's age, weight, medical history, and other medications they are taking. Symfi may cause mild to severe side effects in some patients and may interact with other medications, including over-the-counter medications and herbal supplements. Patients should inform their healthcare provider about all medications they are taking before starting Symfi. Symfi is a brand name medication, and there is no generic version currently available.