Researching Descovy vs Truvada for PrEP? HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) is a relatively new strategy for HIV prevention. Starting in 2012, Truvada was the only medication available for that purpose. In 2019, Descovy got FDA approval to to be used for that PrEP as well. We are also expecting to see emtricitabine-tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) on the market soon as a generic version of Truvada. We are going to highlight the main differences between Descovy (with tenofovir alafenamide or TAF) and Truvada (with tenofovir disoproxil fumarate or TDF). You can also review the clinical trial results HERE.

• Been on the market longer
• FDA approved for both men and women
• Approved for the 2-1-1 dosing

• Concern about kidney and bone toxic side effects over time
• Requires blood tests to check the kidney function tests every 3-6 months

• Initial trial suggests less toxic bone and kidney side effects
• Do not need to monitor kidney function as aggressively (routine STI testing still recommended)
• Early data suggests more effectiveness than Truvada for HIV prevention.

• Concerns about weight gain and lipid levels (very limited data)
• New medication: Effectiveness and side effects still need to be fully validated
• Not FDA approved for the 2-1-1 regimen
• Not FDA approved for women

With more medications coming on the market for HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis, the segment of individuals benefiting from PrEP will hopefully increase as more options become available.

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