Avonza is a fixed-dose combination tablet used in the treatment of HIV-1 infection. It brings together three important antiretroviral medicines—efavirenz, lamivudine, and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate—in a single, once-daily pill. This combination helps simplify therapy, improve adherence, and achieve better viral suppression in people living with HIV. Avonza is commonly prescribed as part of first-line antiretroviral therapy in adults and adolescents.

Mechanism of Action:
Each component in Avonza plays a specific role in stopping HIV from multiplying:

• Efavirenz is a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor. It binds directly to the reverse transcriptase enzyme, disrupting the virus’s ability to make DNA from its RNA.

• Lamivudine is a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor. It gets incorporated into the viral DNA chain and causes early termination, preventing the virus from completing its replication process.

• Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate is a nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitor. It competes with the natural building blocks of viral DNA and also causes premature chain termination.

  Uses:
  Avonza is used to:

  • Treat HIV-1 infection in adults and adolescents who weigh at least 35 kilograms

  • Help reduce the risk of disease progression and improve quality of life

  • Achieve and maintain viral suppression when taken regularly and as prescribed

    Adverse Effects:
    While Avonza is effective and generally well tolerated, some people may experience side effects. These may include:

    • Dizziness, unusual dreams, trouble sleeping, or mood changes, which are usually due to efavirenz. These symptoms are more noticeable in the first few weeks and often improve over time.

    • Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, especially when starting treatment.

    • Headache or fatigue.

    • Skin rash, which is usually mild but should be monitored.

    • Liver or kidney changes, especially in people with pre-existing liver or kidney conditions.

    • Bone thinning or reduced bone mineral density may occur with long-term use of tenofovir.

    • In rare cases, serious effects like lactic acidosis or liver problems may occur, so regular medical follow-up is important.