Atripla contains 3 medicines, Sustiva (efavirenz), Emtriva (emtricitabine) and Viread (tenofovir disoproxil fumarate also called tenofovir DF) combined in one pill. Emtriva and Viread are HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) nucleoside analog reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) and Sustiva is an HIV non-nucleoside analog reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI). Viread and Emtriva are the components of Truvada. Atripla can be used individually as a complete regimen, or in combination with other anti-HIV medicines to treat people with HIV infection. Atripla is for adults of age 18 and over. The efficacy of Atripla in children and adults over age 65 has not been studied. HIV infection destroys CD4 (T) cells, which are key to the immune system. The immune system helps to fight against infection. After a large number of T cells are destroyed, acquired immune deficiency syndrome develops.

Atripla helps block HIV reverse transcriptase, a viral chemical in your body that is needed for HIV to multiply. Atripla lowers the amount of HIV in the blood (viral load). Atripla may also help to increase the number of T cells, allowing your immune system to improve. Lowering the amount of HIV in the blood generally lowers the chance of death or infections that happen when your immune system is weak.

Side Effects of Atripla

When you start with Atripla the temporary side effects such as headaches, high blood pressure, or a general sense of feeling ill arises, but these side effects usually get better or disappear over time.

The most common side effects of Atripla are the same as with the drugs it contains: emtricitabine, efavirenz, and tenofovir. They include diarrhea, nausea, headache, vomiting, vivid dreams, anxiety, rash, dizziness, insomnia, and loss of appetite