Gilead Sciences is a renowned pharmaceutical company that focuses on discovering, developing and manufacturing drugs for treating chronic diseases. It was founded in 1987 and is based in California, the United States. Gilead Sciences is known for developing several drugs that have been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and have proven efficacy in the treatment of chronic diseases like HIV, hepatitis B and C, Oncology, and more.
Uses
Gilead Sciences has developed several drugs that have proven efficacy in treating chronic diseases. Some of the most notable drugs developed by the company include Viread, Truvada, Harvoni, Sovaldi, and Descovy. Viread is used for the treatment of HIV, while Truvada is prescribed to prevent HIV infection. Harvoni and Sovaldi are used for treating hepatitis C virus, while Descovy is used for treating and preventing HIV infection. The company is also developing drugs for cancer and inflammatory diseases.
Dosage
The dosage of Gilead Sciences drugs depends on the individual's medical condition, age, and response to treatment. Viread is usually prescribed in a tablet form of 300 mg and is usually taken once a day. Truvada is prescribed in a tablet form of 200 mg of emtricitabine and 300 mg of tenofovir and is usually taken once a day. Harvoni is prescribed in a combination tablet of 90 mg of ledipasvir and 400 mg of sofosbuvir and is usually taken once a day. Sovaldi is prescribed in a tablet form of 400 mg of sofosbuvir and is taken once a day. Descovy is prescribed in a tablet form of 200 mg of emtricitabine and 25 mg of tenofovir alafenamide and is taken once a day.
Side Effects
Like any other medication, Gilead Sciences drugs may cause side effects. However, the severity and frequency of the side effects vary from person to person. Some of the most common side effects of Gilead Sciences drugs include headache, fatigue, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dizziness, and skin rash. Harvoni and Sovaldi may cause additional side effects such as depression, insomnia, and anemia. Patients should inform their healthcare provider if they experience any side effects while taking Gilead Sciences drugs.
Interactions
Gilead Sciences drugs may interact with other medications or supplements a person is taking. It is essential to inform your healthcare provider of all medications, supplements, and vitamins you are taking before starting any Gilead Sciences drug. Viread and Truvada may interact with antacids, adefovir, and other drugs that can harm the kidneys. Harvoni and Sovaldi may interact with drugs that lower heart rate and blood pressure. Descovy may interact with antacids and other drugs that harm the kidneys.
Generic
Gilead Sciences drugs are available in generic forms. Generic drugs are approved by the FDA and are much cheaper than branded drugs. Generic drugs have the same active ingredients, dosage, and safety standards as branded drugs. However, different generic drugs may vary in their inactive ingredients, manufacturing process, and packaging.
Demographic
Gilead Sciences drugs are FDA approved for use in adults. The dosage, duration, and efficacy of the drugs may vary depending on the patient's medical condition, age, and response to treatment. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult their healthcare provider before taking any Gilead Sciences drug. Children under the age of 18 should not take some of Gilead Sciences' drugs, including Harvoni and Truvada. Patients should inform their healthcare provider if they have any medical conditions, such as kidney or liver problems, before taking any Gilead Sciences drug.
Conclusion
Gilead Sciences is a prominent pharmaceutical company that focuses on discovering, developing, and manufacturing drugs for treating chronic diseases. The company has developed several drugs that have proven efficacy in treating chronic diseases like HIV, hepatitis B and C, Oncology, and more. Gilead Sciences drugs have varying dosages, side effects, interactions, generics, and demographic information that should be noted by patients before taking a drug. Patients should consult their healthcare providers for more information.