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

This is Symtuza. It helps treat HIV-1 infection and keeps it under control. Symtuza contains four medicines in each tablet.

Symtuza is often taken once a day, at the same time each day.  You should take it exactly as your doctor tells you to.  You should take your dose with food. It is important to not miss any doses. If you do, the virus could get worse and become harder to treat.

Most people tolerate Symtuza well. Common side effects include diarrhea, nausea, fatigue and headache. It may also cause stomach problems.  These are normal if they are mild and should go away.  Another common side effect is a rash.  These are usually mild but severe and life-threatening skin conditions can occur.  Call your doctor right away if you develop any rashes.  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. With Symtuza, this includes problems with your liver. It can also cause a flare up of hepatitis B if you already have it. To prevent this, you must not miss doses or stop taking it, unless your doctor says it is okay. You should read the patient information sheet to know which symptoms to watch for and when to report changes. To help keep this medicine safe for you, your doctor will follow your condition closely and may order blood tests.

Symtuza can interact with other medicines. You should always check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any other medicines.

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

For best results with Symtuza, be sure to plan ahead for refills. Also, store it in the original bottle with the lid tightly sealed.