Stribild is a prescription medication used to treat HIV in adults and some children. If you have HIV, your doctor might prescribe Stribild for you. It’s a combination of four drugs that work together to manage the virus.
Stribild Basics
- Form: Stribild comes as a tablet that you take by mouth.
- Active Ingredients: It contains four drugs:
- Elvitegravir
- Cobicistat
- Emtricitabine
- Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate
- Generic Version: Stribild is only available as a brand-name medication; there’s no generic version.
What is Stribild Used For?
Stribild is used to treat HIV in:
- Adults
- Children aged 12 years and older who weigh at least 77 pounds (35 kg).
It’s a complete treatment on its own, meaning you don’t need to take other HIV medications with it. Your doctor may prescribe Stribild if:
- You’re new to HIV treatment, or
- You’ve been on the same HIV treatment for at least 6 months, and your HIV levels are under control.
About HIV
HIV is a virus that attacks the immune system, making it harder for your body to fight infections. It spreads through blood or bodily fluids. Without treatment, HIV can progress to AIDS, which severely weakens the immune system.
Stribild Side Effects
Like most medications, Stribild can cause side effects. These can be mild or serious, depending on your age, health conditions, and other medications you’re taking.
Mild Side Effects
Common mild side effects include:
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Headache
- Fatigue (low energy)
- Dizziness
- Trouble sleeping
- Skin rash
- Gas
- Unusual dreams
Most mild side effects go away within a few days or weeks. If they bother you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.
Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are rare but can include:
- Kidney problems (e.g., kidney failure)
- Liver disease
- Bone loss
- Lactic acid buildup in the body
- Severe allergic reactions
- Suicidal thoughts or actions
If you experience serious side effects, call your doctor immediately. In case of a medical emergency, call 911.
Allergic Reactions
Although rare, some people may have an allergic reaction to Stribild. Symptoms include:
- Skin rash
- Itching
- Swelling (especially of the face, tongue, or throat)
- Trouble breathing
If you notice these symptoms, seek medical help right away.
Stribild Dosage
- Form: Tablet containing:
- 150 mg elvitegravir
- 150 mg cobicistat
- 200 mg emtricitabine
- 300 mg tenofovir
- How to Take: Take one tablet daily with food.
- Missed Dose: If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose.
- Long-Term Use: Stribild is meant for long-term treatment. It may take several months to a year to achieve undetectable HIV levels in your blood.
Things to Consider Before Taking Stribild
Before starting Stribild, discuss the following with your doctor:
- Health Conditions: Tell your doctor if you have kidney, liver, or bone problems, or a history of mental health issues like depression.
- Medications: Stribild can interact with other drugs, including antibiotics, antifungals, and birth control. Share all medications and supplements you’re taking.
- Pregnancy/Breastfeeding: Stribild is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Talk to your doctor about safer options.
- Alcohol: While Stribild doesn’t directly interact with alcohol, both can affect the liver. Discuss safe alcohol use with your doctor.
Stribild vs. Other HIV Medications
Stribild vs. Genvoya
- Both treat HIV and contain similar ingredients.
- The main difference is the form and strength of tenofovir. Stribild has a higher dose of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, while Genvoya contains a lower dose of tenofovir alafenamide.
Stribild vs. Biktarvy
- Biktarvy contains different active ingredients but is also used to treat HIV.
- Both drugs have a warning about worsening hepatitis B in people with both HIV and hepatitis B.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does Stribild cause weight gain?
- No, Stribild doesn’t cause weight gain. However, HIV treatment can sometimes lead to weight changes as your health improves.
2. Can Stribild cure HIV?
- No, Stribild doesn’t cure HIV. It helps control the virus and lowers the risk of spreading it to others.
3. What if I miss a dose?
- Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose.
4. Can I take Stribild with food?
- Yes, Stribild should be taken with food to help your body absorb it properly.
5. What should I do in case of an overdose?
- If you take too much Stribild, call your doctor or poison control at 800-222-1222. In case of severe symptoms, call 911 or go to the emergency room.
Cost of Stribild
The cost of Stribild can vary depending on your insurance and pharmacy. If you’re concerned about the cost, ask your doctor or pharmacist about financial assistance programs like Advancing Access.
Talking to Your Doctor
If you’re considering Stribild, here are some questions to ask your doctor:
- How often will I need blood tests to monitor my HIV levels?
- Are there any pain medications I should avoid while taking Stribild?
- What should I do if I experience side effects?
- Is Stribild safe for me if I have other health conditions?
Conclusion
Stribild is an effective treatment for HIV, but it’s important to take it as prescribed and discuss any concerns with your doctor. While it can cause side effects, many people find it helps them manage their HIV effectively. Always follow your doctor’s advice and report any unusual symptoms during treatment.