Let's take a minute to talk about your medication. 

This is Biktarvy. It helps treat HIV-1 infection and keep it under control. Biktarvy contains three medicines in each tablet. 

Biktarvy is often taken once a day, at the same time each day. You should take it exactly how your doctor tells you to. You can take your dose with or without food. It is important to not miss any doses. If you do, the virus could increase and become harder to treat.

Most people tolerate this medicine well. Common side effects include diarrhea, nausea and headache. These effects are normal if they are mild and should get better with time. If these or other side effects become reasons you want to stop taking this medicine, please talk to your doctor or pharmacist. 

As with any medicine, rare but more serious side effects can occur. You should read the Patient Information sheet to know which symptoms to watch for and when to report changes. If you have hepatitis B infection, it can get worse if you stop taking this medicine. Do not stop taking Biktarvy unless your doctor says it's okay. To help keep this medicine safe for you, your doctor will follow your condition closely.

Biktarvy can interact with other medicines. You should check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking other medicines, herbal remedies and vitamins. Always check before taking antacids and calcium or iron supplements. 

Women must talk to their doctors before becoming pregnant and should not breastfeed. 

For best results with Biktarvy, be sure to plan ahead for refills so you do not miss doses. Also, store it in the original bottle with the lid tightly sealed.