Recovir 300 mg Tablet

Q1: What is Recovir (Tenofovir DF 300mg) used for?

Recovir is a Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate 300mg tablet — a nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NtRTI) used as a core component of HIV combination therapy. It is also approved for chronic hepatitis B treatment.

Q2: How does Tenofovir DF work?

After absorption, TDF is hydrolysed to Tenofovir, which is then phosphorylated intracellularly to Tenofovir diphosphate. This competes with natural dATP and, when incorporated by HIV reverse transcriptase, terminates viral DNA chain elongation.

Q3: How is Recovir 300mg taken?

Take 300mg once daily. Food increases Tenofovir bioavailability by up to 40%, so taking with a meal improves absorption and reduces GI upset. Consistent daily timing is essential.

Q4: Does Tenofovir DF also treat hepatitis B?

Yes. Tenofovir DF is one of the most potent HBV treatments available. In HIV/HBV co-infected patients, it suppresses both viruses simultaneously. Never stop TDF in co-infected patients without maintaining HBV suppression.

Q5: What kidney risks are associated with TDF?

TDF can cause proximal renal tubular dysfunction in some patients, presenting as decreased eGFR, low serum phosphate (Fanconi syndrome), and proteinuria. Patients with pre-existing kidney disease require close monitoring. Patients with eGFR <30 should not use TDF.

Q6: What bone density effects does TDF cause?

Long-term TDF use reduces bone mineral density by 2–3% over 2 years. Calcium and vitamin D supplementation is often recommended. For patients with osteoporosis risk, TAF-based alternatives have significantly less bone impact.

Q7: What are the most common side effects?

Nausea, diarrhea, headache, fatigue, and bone pain are most common. Most GI side effects improve after the first few weeks. Long-term renal and bone effects require monitoring.

Q8: What serious side effects require emergency care?

Seek immediate care for: lactic acidosis (muscle pain, weakness, difficulty breathing), severe hepatitis (jaundice, right upper quadrant pain), or HBV flare symptoms if TDF is stopped in co-infected patients.

Q9: Can Recovir be used during pregnancy?

TDF has been extensively studied in HIV-positive pregnant women and is included in most HIV-in-pregnancy guidelines as a preferred NRTI. It is also used for HBV transmission prevention in the third trimester.

Q10: What monitoring is required?

Renal function (creatinine, eGFR, phosphate, urine protein) at baseline and every 6 months. CD4 and viral load every 3–6 months. Bone density assessment if osteoporosis risk factors are present.

Q11: How should Recovir be stored?

Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Keep in original packaging out of reach of children.

Q12: Do I need a prescription?

Yes. Tenofovir requires specialist prescribing for HIV therapy, with baseline and regular renal function monitoring.