Tenofovir Disoproxil 245mg tablet for Hepatitis B management

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What is this information about?

This information answers some common questions patients ask about treatment with tenofovir disproxil. It has been developed by the hepatitis team, including doctors, nurses and pharmacists.

Is there any further information that it might be useful for me to have?

You may also find the patient information leaflet on Chronic Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) useful: please request this from the specialist team or find it here.

What should I do if I still have questions after I’ve read this information?

If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact the specialist hepatology team for further advice and / or resources – contact details are at the end of this information.

What is tenofovir disoproxil (TDF)?

TDF is an anti-viral medication used to treat chronic (long-term) hepatitis B viral (HBV) infection in adults. HBV infection can lead to damage of the liver (called fibrosis and cirrhosis), and TDF helps to reduce the amount of virus in your body and therefore improve the condition of your liver. It can also be used for other conditions such as HIV.

How is TDF supplied and monitored?

You will need to get regular blood tests before re-supply of the medication, so it is important to keep up-to-date with these tests. Regular blood tests usually needed at least every 6 months to ensure safe prescribing and management, but your specialist team will let you know when these will be needed. You will also have regular investigations such as liver scans.

What do I take and how do I take it?

The usual dose for TDF is one 245mg tablet once a day, by mouth. This should be taken at the same time each day and with food (either a small snack or meal).

There may be exceptions to this and your specialist team will advise accordingly.

How long will I receive treatment?

Currently, HBV treatment aims to reduce the amount of virus (viral load / DNA) in your body to prevent liver damage, and is not a cure. Treatment duration will be long term in most patients until there is a loss of surface antigen (note though loss of surface antigen occurs in less than 10% of patients). You will therefore likely remain on TDF for life or until other treatments become available.

What happens if I forget to take a dose or vomit?

It is important you do not miss any doses. If you have missed a dose of TDF then work out how long it has been since you should have taken the dose.

• If it is less than 12 hours, then take the forgotten dose and then continue with your planned next dose.
• If it has been more than 12 hours, then do not take the missed dose and wait for your next planned dose.

• If you have vomited within 1 hour of taking your dose, then another tablet should be taken.

If treatment has intentionally been stopped by the team, then they will monitor your bloods closely.

What are the common side effects?

TDF is generally well tolerated, however all medications have the potential to cause side effects and TDF is no different.

You may experience:

• stomach pain.
• lack of energy (asthenia).
• diarrhoea.
• dizziness
• fever.
• flatulence.
• headache.
• insomnia.
• feeling sick (nausea) or being sick (vomiting).
• rashes (skin effects).

If any of these side effects are a problem for you, do not stop taking TDF but ensure you speak with your specialist team.

Does my treatment interfere with my other medicines?

Before starting TDF, please let the specialist team know of any other medications you take, both prescribed and bought over the counter.

Please let all healthcare professionals know that you are taking TDF.

Is treatment ok in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

People with HBV can usually have a healthy pregnancy and breastfeed, however it is essential to discuss plans with your specialist team first as they will need to monitor your HBV closely and your medication may need to be changed.

What should you expect during your clinic appointments?

You may have an appointment with any member of the multi-disciplinary specialist team including doctors, nurses, pharmacists and / or research team, where we can discuss all aspects of your care.

Blood tests are a vital part of your care and the results need to be available to assess your response to treatment and facilitate supply of your medication. If you are having issues getting your bloods done or need more blood forms, please contact the specialist team.

Where can I find further information and support?

Please refer to patient information leaflet found inside medication box.

More information can be found via:

You could also phone:

• Out of hours GP (if open)
• NHS 111
• The medication delivery team: space to write in their name

More information about HBV can be found via The British Liver Trust

A patient information leaflet on HBV is available. Please request these from the specialist team or find them here