Antiretroviral (combination HIV medication — NRTI + NNRTI)
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
This is a combination of three antiretroviral (anti-HIV) drugs — Tenofovir, Lamivudine, and Efavirenz — combined in one tablet. They work together to stop the HIV virus from multiplying in your body, helping your immune system stay strong.
Inhibits HIV reverse transcriptase through dual mechanisms: tenofovir and lamivudine act as nucleotide/nucleoside analogs that cause chain termination during viral DNA synthesis, while efavirenz non-competitively binds the reverse transcriptase enzyme, blocking viral replication and reducing CD4+ T-cell destruction.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
Take one tablet once a day, preferably at bedtime on an empty stomach (or with a light meal). Taking it at night helps reduce side effects like dizziness. Swallow the tablet whole with water — do not crush or chew. Take it at the same time every day without missing doses.
If you miss a dose and remember within 12 hours, take it immediately. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule. Never take two tablets at once to make up for a missed dose. Try to set a daily alarm so you don't forget.
Never stop taking this drug on your own or skip doses — this can make the virus resistant, meaning the drug will stop working for you. Only collect your ARVs from approved hospitals, pharmacies, or treatment centres — do not buy from roadside sellers or unverified sources as fake drugs are common. Do not share your medication with anyone else, even if they also have HIV, as their doctor may need to prescribe a different combination for them.
Do not take with other HIV drugs containing the same ingredients (e.g., separate Tenofovir or Lamivudine tablets) as this can cause overdose. Avoid using with traditional herbal remedies like St. John's Wort as it can reduce the drug's effectiveness. Alcohol can worsen dizziness and liver side effects — reduce or avoid alcohol while on this medication.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Tenofovir with your other drugs?
Efavirenz (one of the ingredients) may harm an unborn baby, especially in the first trimester — if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your doctor immediately so they can switch you to a safer combination.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it in cars or near windows. Keep the container tightly closed to protect from moisture. Always keep out of the reach of children.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
Tap a brand for packaging, NAFDAC details and authenticity check
Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.
Dispensing Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate; Lamivudine; Efavirenz?
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