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What is Descovy used for?

Descovy is a once daily pill approved for two purposes: as part of an HIV treatment regimen and also as a key part of a complete PrEP regimen. As PrEP, it’s up to 99% effective in preventing HIV. 

What Should I Tell My Doctor Before Taking Descovy?

Before you start taking Descovy, talk with your health care provider about the following:

  • Allergies: If you have allergies, inform your doctor before taking any new medications. Tell your Nurx™ medical provider if you have had allergic reactions to emtricitabine or tenofovir-alafenamide, the two HIV medications in Descovy.
  • Recent Illnesses: Tell your Nurx health care provider about any colds, viruses, or flu-like conditions you’ve experienced in the last 30 days. Discuss recent symptoms like diarrhea, fatigue, fever, headaches, muscle aches, or vomiting, because they can be early indicators of an HIV infection.
  • HIV Concerns: If you think you have an HIV infection or if you may have been exposed to HIV, talk with your healthcare provider. Your doctor may recommend additional testing before starting PrEP treatment.
  • Health Conditions: Discuss any other ongoing health conditions you have with your healthcare provider, including kidney issues or liver problems like hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. Before starting treatment with Descovy, you have to be tested for HBV.
  • Medications: Show your Nurx health care provider a list of the medications you take. Include both prescription and over-the-counter medications, especially if you take hormone-based birth control. Ask your doctor whether it’s safe to take Descovy while taking your other medications, and request more information about taking birth control and PrEP medications simultaneously.
  • Supplements: Give your Nurx health care provider a list of the supplements and vitamins you take or you are thinking about taking. Ask whether the natural and herbal supplements you take can cause side effects when combined with Descovy.
  • Pregnancy: If you are pregnant, think you might be pregnant, or plan to become pregnant, tell your Nurx health care provider. It isn’t known if taking Descovy can cause side effects that could harm your unborn baby, so you should understand the potential risks. If you become pregnant while taking Descovy, tell your doctor right away.
  • Breastfeeding: If you breastfeed or plan to nurse while taking Descovy, have a conversation with your Nurx health care provider. You shouldn’t nurse, as breastmilk can pass HIV-1 to your baby.

Nurx prescribes generic PrEP unless you have a medical reason why you must take Descovy.

Get PrEP for HIV Prevention At Home

Nurx offers PrEP for HIV prevention for as little as $0 with insurance for medication.

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