Tafero contains tenofovir alafenamide (TAF), a next-generation antiretroviral medicine used in the treatment of HIV-1 infection and chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. TAF is a prodrug of tenofovir, designed to deliver the active drug more efficiently at lower doses. This improves safety, particularly with respect to kidney and bone health, compared to its predecessor, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF).

Mechanism of Action
Once inside the body, tenofovir alafenamide is converted into tenofovir diphosphate, the active form of the drug. This molecule mimics natural DNA building blocks and gets incorporated into the viral DNA during replication. Once inserted, it blocks the addition of further bases, effectively halting the virus’s ability to multiply.

In HIV, this stops the virus from replicating and helps lower viral load in the blood. In hepatitis B infection, it suppresses viral replication, reducing liver inflammation and the risk of long-term liver damage.

Uses
Tafero is used for the treatment of:

• HIV-1 infection, in combination with other antiretroviral agents, in adults and adolescents

• Chronic hepatitis B infection in adults and adolescents with evidence of active viral replication and liver inflammation

  Adverse Effects
  Tafero is generally well tolerated and offers fewer risks to kidneys and bones compared to older tenofovir formulations. However, some individuals may still experience side effects.

  Common side effects may include:

  • Headache

  • Stomach discomfort or nausea

  • Tiredness

  • Cough or respiratory symptoms