{"id":930,"date":"2026-04-23T08:30:45","date_gmt":"2026-04-23T08:30:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/rxzest.com\/en-za\/?p=930"},"modified":"2026-05-06T16:47:16","modified_gmt":"2026-05-06T16:47:16","slug":"hetemcit-uses-dosage-side-effects-safety","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/rxzest.com\/en-za\/hetemcit-uses-dosage-side-effects-safety\/","title":{"rendered":"Hetemcit Uses In South Africa- Dosage, Side Effects &amp; Safety"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you are taking <strong>HETEMCIT<\/strong> or caring for someone who is, it helps to know exactly what this medicine does, how to take it properly, and when to get medical advice. HETEMCIT is a prescription antiviral medicine used in adults for <strong>HIV-1 infection<\/strong> as part of combination treatment, and it is also used as <strong>pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP)<\/strong> for HIV. It contains two active ingredients in one tablet: <strong>emtricitabine 200 mg<\/strong> and <strong>tenofovir disoproxil fumarate 300 mg<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Quick facts:<\/strong> HETEMCIT is a <strong>Schedule 4<\/strong> medicine in South Africa. It is taken <strong>once a day<\/strong>, with or without food. It is <strong>not suitable for everyone<\/strong>, especially if you have moderate to severe kidney problems, are pregnant, or are breastfeeding. It can also cause serious side effects in some people, so regular medical follow-up is important.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What it is and what it is used for<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What medicine HETEMCIT contains<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">HETEMCIT contains two antiretroviral medicines:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Emtricitabine 200 mg<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate 300 mg<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These medicines belong to a group called <strong>nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs)<\/strong>. In simple terms, they are antiviral medicines used in HIV care.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What HETEMCIT is used for<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">HETEMCIT is indicated for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Treatment of HIV-1 infection in adults<\/strong>, together with other antiretroviral medicines such as non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors or protease inhibitors<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Pre-exposure prophylaxis of HIV (PrEP)<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What this means for you<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you are using HETEMCIT for HIV treatment, it is <strong>not used on its own<\/strong>. It forms part of a broader antiretroviral treatment plan. If you are using it for PrEP, it is used to help reduce the risk of HIV infection as described in the source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How it works (simple explanation)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">HIV needs to copy itself inside the body in order to spread. The two active ingredients in HETEMCIT interfere with that copying process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Emtricitabine<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Emtricitabine enters cells and is changed into an active form. That active form blocks an enzyme called <strong>reverse transcriptase<\/strong>, which HIV needs in order to make copies of itself. It also causes the viral DNA chain to stop growing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate is changed in the body into tenofovir, and then into its active form. This active form also blocks HIV reverse transcriptase and stops viral DNA from being completed properly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">In everyday terms<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you think of HIV as trying to make repeated copies of itself, HETEMCIT helps to interrupt that process. That makes it harder for the virus to continue multiplying in your body. The source does not say that HETEMCIT cures HIV, and it also does not say that current antiretroviral treatment fully prevents HIV from being passed to others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Warning:<\/strong> Even while taking HETEMCIT, you should still follow precautions to reduce the risk of HIV transmission through sex or blood contact.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Who should NOT use this medicine<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do <strong>not<\/strong> use HETEMCIT if you:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Are allergic to <strong>emtricitabine<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Are allergic to <strong>tenofovir<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Are allergic to <strong>any of the other ingredients<\/strong> in the tablet<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Are <strong>pregnant<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Are <strong>breastfeeding<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Have <strong>moderate to severe renal (kidney) impairment<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Other situations where it should not be used in certain ways<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The source also states that:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>HETEMCIT <strong>should not be used as part of a triple nucleoside regimen<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It <strong>should not be co-administered with emtricitabine or tenofovir<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It <strong>should not be co-administered with medicines containing lamivudine<\/strong> because of similarities between emtricitabine and lamivudine<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Safety and effectiveness in people <strong>under 18 years<\/strong> have <strong>not been established<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Warnings and precautions (Read before use)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are some important risks to know about before starting HETEMCIT.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Serious lactic acidosis and liver problems<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The source warns that <strong>lactic acidosis<\/strong> and <strong>severe hepatomegaly with steatosis<\/strong> have been reported with medicines like HETEMCIT, sometimes with fatal outcomes. Lactic acidosis means too much acid building up in the blood. Hepatomegaly with steatosis means an enlarged fatty liver.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Possible symptoms mentioned in the source include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Nausea<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Vomiting<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Abdominal pain<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Dyspnoea (difficulty breathing)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fatigue<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Weight loss<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The source says treatment should be <strong>stopped<\/strong> in patients who develop signs suggesting lactic acidosis or marked liver toxicity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Warning:<\/strong> If you develop these symptoms, get medical help urgently. The source gives specific monitoring steps for blood lactate levels, which your doctor would manage.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">HIV and hepatitis B co-infection<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you have both <strong>HIV and hepatitis B virus (HBV)<\/strong>, special care is needed. The source says the safety and efficacy of HETEMCIT have <strong>not been established<\/strong> in patients co-infected with HIV and HBV, and it is <strong>not indicated for chronic HBV treatment<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If HETEMCIT is stopped in someone with both HIV and HBV, <strong>severe worsening of hepatitis B<\/strong> has been reported. Liver function should then be closely monitored for at least several months.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Kidney problems<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Both active ingredients are mainly removed from the body by the kidneys. The source says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Kidney function should be assessed before starting treatment<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Monitoring during treatment should be done when clinically appropriate<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>HETEMCIT should <strong>not<\/strong> be given if creatinine clearance is <strong>below 30 ml\/min<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It should be avoided with nephrotoxic medicines where possible<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Kidney-related problems reported with tenofovir include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Acute renal failure<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Renal impairment<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fanconi syndrome<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Severe low phosphate levels<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Bone effects<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">HETEMCIT may be linked to a <strong>reduction in bone density<\/strong>. The source says it is not known whether long-term use of more than one year causes bone abnormalities. Bone monitoring may be considered if you have a history of fractures or are at risk of osteopenia. Calcium and vitamin D supplementation may be beneficial for all patients.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Opportunistic infections and immune reconstitution syndrome<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you are living with HIV, infections and other complications may still develop while on treatment, so regular follow-up with an experienced doctor remains important.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The source also mentions <strong>immune reconstitution syndrome<\/strong>. This means that when the immune system starts responding again, it may trigger inflammation linked to hidden or lingering infections such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Mycobacterium avium infection<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cytomegalovirus<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tuberculosis<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Changes in body fat<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Changes in fat distribution have been observed with antiretroviral treatment, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Central obesity<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fat build-up at the back of the neck (\u201cbuffalo hump\u201d)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Facial or limb wasting<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Breast enlargement<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The source says the exact cause and long-term effects are not known.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Driving and using tools or machines<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some people may develop:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Dizziness<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Impaired concentration<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Drowsiness<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If this happens to you, <strong>do not drive<\/strong> and <strong>do not use tools or machines<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Lactose content<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">HETEMCIT contains <strong>lactose monohydrate<\/strong>. It should not be taken if you have rare hereditary problems such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Galactose intolerance<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lapp lactose deficiency<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Glucose-galactose malabsorption<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Pregnancy, planning pregnancy, and breastfeeding<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The source states that HETEMCIT is <strong>contraindicated in pregnancy and lactation<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Pregnancy<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Safety in pregnancy has <strong>not been established<\/strong>, because adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women have not been done.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Breastfeeding<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The source says that mothers with HIV should <strong>not breastfeed<\/strong> to avoid the risk of passing HIV to the baby after birth. It also says mothers should not breastfeed while receiving HETEMCIT because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Note:<\/strong> If you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding, speak to your doctor before using this medicine.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Interactions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">HETEMCIT can interact with certain other medicines. The source says the potential for CYP450 interactions is low, but there may still be important interactions, especially with medicines handled by the kidneys.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Medicines to avoid or use with caution<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Use extra caution if you take:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Didanosine<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Lamivudine<\/strong> or products containing lamivudine<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Indinavir<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Abacavir<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Atazanavir<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Lopinavir\/ritonavir<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Acyclovir<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Adefovir dipivoxil<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cidofovir<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Ganciclovir<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Valacyclovir<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Valganciclovir<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Important practical points from the source<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>HETEMCIT should <strong>not<\/strong> be taken with <strong>emtricitabine<\/strong> or <strong>tenofovir<\/strong> separately.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It should <strong>not<\/strong> be taken with <strong>lamivudine-containing<\/strong> products.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Atazanavir <strong>without ritonavir<\/strong> should <strong>not<\/strong> be used with HETEMCIT.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>With <strong>didanosine<\/strong>, blood levels can rise significantly, increasing the risk of side effects such as <strong>pancreatitis<\/strong> and <strong>neuropathy<\/strong>. Patients on this combination should be monitored closely.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Medicines cleared through active tubular secretion in the kidneys may increase levels of HETEMCIT or the other medicine.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Food and alcohol<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The source says HETEMCIT can be taken <strong>with or without food<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Alcohol:<\/strong> Not specified in the source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to take (Step-by-step)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Usual adult dose<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The recommended adult dose is:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>One tablet once daily<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Take it <strong>with or without food<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">For children<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Safety and efficacy in patients <strong>younger than 18 years<\/strong> have <strong>not been established<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">If you have kidney impairment<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The source says exposure increases significantly in moderate to severe renal impairment, and HETEMCIT is contraindicated in moderate to severe renal impairment. It also says dosing interval adjustment is recommended in patients with creatinine clearance <strong>30\u201349 ml\/min<\/strong>. Exact adjusted dosing instructions are <strong>not specified in the source provided here<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step-by-step tips for taking it<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Take <strong>one tablet every day<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Try to take it at <strong>the same time each day<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You may take it <strong>with food or without food<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Do not take extra tablets unless your doctor tells you to do so<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If you are also taking other HIV medicines, follow that treatment plan exactly as prescribed<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Missed dose<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Not specified in the source.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Overdose<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is limited experience with acute overdose. The source advises:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Contact a <strong>poison control centre<\/strong> for further management of overdose or unintentional ingestion<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Treatment is <strong>symptomatic and supportive<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The patient should be monitored for toxicity<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Standard supportive measures should be used<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Haemodialysis<\/strong> can be used to help remove emtricitabine and tenofovir<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Dosing table<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Age group or situation<\/th><th class=\"has-text-align-right\" data-align=\"right\">Dose<\/th><th>Frequency<\/th><th class=\"has-text-align-right\" data-align=\"right\">Maximum daily dose<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Adults<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-right\" data-align=\"right\">1 tablet (emtricitabine 200 mg + tenofovir disoproxil fumarate 300 mg)<\/td><td>Once daily<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-right\" data-align=\"right\">1 tablet daily<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Patients under 18 years<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-right\" data-align=\"right\">Not established in the source<\/td><td>Not established in the source<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-right\" data-align=\"right\">Not established in the source<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Renal impairment (creatinine clearance 30\u201349 ml\/min)<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-right\" data-align=\"right\">Dosing interval adjustment recommended<\/td><td>Not fully specified in the source<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-right\" data-align=\"right\">Not specified in the source<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Moderate to severe renal impairment<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-right\" data-align=\"right\">Do not use<\/td><td>Not applicable<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-right\" data-align=\"right\">Not applicable<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Possible side effects<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Any side effects known for emtricitabine or tenofovir may also happen with HETEMCIT.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Common<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The source reports the following as frequent:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Nausea<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Vomiting<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Diarrhoea<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Headache<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rash or itchy skin reactions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Abdominal pain<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Flatulence<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Dyspepsia (indigestion)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Anorexia<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hypophosphataemia (low phosphate levels)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Elevation of creatinine kinase<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Asthenia (weakness or lack of energy) is listed as less frequent for some components<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Less common<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The source lists these as less frequent:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Asthenia<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Raised serum amylase<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pancreatitis<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Anorexia<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Serious\u2014seek urgent help<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Get urgent medical help if you develop symptoms or signs linked to the more serious effects mentioned in the source, such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Symptoms that may suggest <strong>lactic acidosis<\/strong>: nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, fatigue, weight loss<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Signs of <strong>liver problems<\/strong>, including raised liver enzymes, hepatitis, severe liver enlargement with fatty change, or worsening hepatitis B after stopping treatment in people with HBV co-infection<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Serious <strong>kidney problems<\/strong> such as renal impairment, acute renal failure, nephritis, nephrogenic diabetes insipidus, Fanconi syndrome, or increased creatinine levels<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Pancreatitis<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Allergic reaction<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Peripheral neuropathy<\/strong> or peripheral neuritis (nerve-related symptoms)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Dyspnoea<\/strong> or chest pain<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Other side effects reported in the source<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These were also reported, with frequency unknown unless stated:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Neutropenia<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Anaemia<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Raised liver enzyme concentrations<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hyperbilirubinaemia<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hypertriglyceridaemia<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hyperglycaemia<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Arthralgia<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Myalgia<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sleep disturbances, including insomnia and abnormal dreams<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Paraesthesia<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Depression<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Increased cough<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rhinitis<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Skin discolouration on the palms and\/or soles<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fever<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sweating<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Weight loss<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Anxiety<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pneumonia<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Haematuria<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Back pain<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Note:<\/strong> Side effect frequencies are not given for every reaction. If you feel unwell after starting HETEMCIT, especially if symptoms are severe, persistent, or unusual, contact your doctor.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Storage and disposal<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Store HETEMCIT:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>At or below <strong>30 \u00b0C<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In a <strong>tightly closed container<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Protected from <strong>light and moisture<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In the <strong>original container<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Also remember:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Keep out of reach of children<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Expiry<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Expiry guidance is <strong>not specified in the source<\/strong>, apart from general storage instructions. Do not use medicine that is past its expiry date.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Disposal<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Disposal instructions are <strong>not specified in the source<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What the medicine contains<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Active ingredients<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Each film-coated tablet contains:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Emtricitabine 200 mg<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate 300 mg<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Other ingredients (excipients)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The source lists these excipients:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Croscarmellose sodium<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Magnesium stearate<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Microcrystalline cellulose<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pregelatinized starch<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Opadry II Blue (coating agent)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Opadry II Blue contains:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Lactose monohydrate<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>HPMC 2910 \/ hypromellose 15cP<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Titanium dioxide<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Triacetin<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>FD &amp; C blue #2 \/ indigo carmine aluminium lake<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Important excipient information<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">HETEMCIT contains sugar in the form of:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Lactose monohydrate 80 mg<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Pack information and appearance<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What the tablet looks like<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">HETEMCIT tablets are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Blue<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Capsule-shaped<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Film-coated<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Debossed with <strong>\u201cH\u201d<\/strong> on one side and <strong>\u201c124\u201d<\/strong> on the other side<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Pack sizes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The tablets are packed in:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Round white HDPE containers<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>With a <strong>desiccant<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Closed with a <strong>white child-resistant cap with pulp liner<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pack sizes of <strong>30 tablets<\/strong> or <strong>60 tablets<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Practical FAQs (based ONLY on the source)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can I take HETEMCIT with food?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes. The source says it can be taken <strong>with or without food<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can children use HETEMCIT?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The source says safety and effectiveness in patients <strong>under 18 years<\/strong> have <strong>not been established<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can I use it if I am pregnant?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No. The source lists pregnancy as a <strong>contraindication<\/strong>, and says safety in pregnancy has not been established.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can I breastfeed while taking it?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No. The source says mothers should <strong>not breastfeed<\/strong> while receiving HETEMCIT.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can I drive after taking HETEMCIT?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You may not be able to drive safely if you develop dizziness, poor concentration, or drowsiness. The source says not to drive or use tools or machines if these happen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can I take HETEMCIT with other HIV medicines?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is used with other antiretroviral medicines for HIV treatment, but it <strong>must not<\/strong> be taken with <strong>emtricitabine<\/strong>, <strong>tenofovir<\/strong>, or <strong>lamivudine-containing products<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can I take it if I have kidney problems?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not if you have <strong>moderate to severe renal impairment<\/strong>. Kidney function monitoring is important, because the medicine is mainly cleared by the kidneys.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Does HETEMCIT prevent me from passing HIV to someone else?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The source says current antiretroviral therapy, including HETEMCIT, has <strong>not been proven<\/strong> to prevent HIV transmission through sexual contact or blood contamination. Precautions should still be used.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What should I do if I take too much?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Contact a <strong>poison control centre<\/strong>. The source says overdose treatment is supportive and symptomatic, and haemodialysis may help remove the active ingredients.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can I drink alcohol while taking this?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Not specified in the source.<\/strong><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>If you are taking HETEMCIT or caring for someone who is, it helps to know exactly what this medicine does, how to take it properly, and when to get medical advice. HETEMCIT is a prescription antiviral medicine used in adults for HIV-1 infection as part of combination treatment, and it is also used as pre-exposure &#8230; <a title=\"Hetemcit Uses In South Africa- Dosage, Side Effects &amp; Safety\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/rxzest.com\/en-za\/hetemcit-uses-dosage-side-effects-safety\/\" aria-label=\"Read more about Hetemcit Uses In South Africa- Dosage, Side Effects &amp; Safety\">Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":933,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-930","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-nutrition"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/rxzest.com\/en-za\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/930","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/rxzest.com\/en-za\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/rxzest.com\/en-za\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/rxzest.com\/en-za\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/rxzest.com\/en-za\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=930"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/rxzest.com\/en-za\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/930\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":932,"href":"https:\/\/rxzest.com\/en-za\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/930\/revisions\/932"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/rxzest.com\/en-za\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/933"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/rxzest.com\/en-za\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=930"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/rxzest.com\/en-za\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=930"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/rxzest.com\/en-za\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=930"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}