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

This is Viread and it helps control chronic Hepatitis B infection. It is also used with other medicines to help control HIV infection.

Viread is usually taken once a day, at the same time each day. It can be taken with or without food.  You should take it exactly as prescribed by your doctor.  If you are taking the oral powder, you should read the Instructions for Use to be sure you know how to take it.

Most people tolerate this medicine well.  Common side effects include nausea, rash, headache and depression.  You may also have pain, dizziness, weakness or diarrhea. You should wait until you know how this medicine affects you before doing activities that require you to be alert, like driving.  These effects are normal if they are mild and should go away.  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 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 are being treated for Hepatitis B, your doctor may test you for HIV.  Also, if you stop taking Viread, your Hepatitis B virus may become worse.  To prevent this, you must not miss doses or stop taking it, unless your doctor says it is okay. To help keep this medicine safe for you, your doctor will follow your condition closely and may order blood tests.

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

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

For best results with Viread, be sure to plan ahead for refills.