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Emtricitabine (Emtriva) is a medication with important safety considerations that need to be understood before use. Below are key warnings and precautions associated with this drug:

• Hepatitis B Worsening: Emtricitabine is not approved for treating hepatitis B. If you have hepatitis B and are taking this medication for HIV, discontinuing it may cause your hepatitis symptoms to significantly worsen. Speak to your healthcare provider before stopping the medication. They will monitor your liver function for several months after discontinuation. Report any signs of liver problems to your doctor immediately.

• Immune Reconstitution Syndrome: As your immune system recovers with HIV treatment, it may begin to fight hidden infections, causing inflammation. This can be beneficial, but excessive inflammation might be harmful. Your healthcare provider may screen for infections prior to initiating emtricitabine, particularly if it's your first HIV medication. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience fever, breathing difficulties, or sudden health changes.

• Liver Problems: Though uncommon, emtricitabine can lead to a potentially fatal condition known as lactic acidosis with hepatic steatosis, more frequently observed in women. Symptoms include loss of appetite, stomach and muscle pain, rapid breathing, extreme fatigue, and sudden weakness. Discontinue use and seek emergency medical attention should these symptoms arise.

Please consult your healthcare provider regarding any concerns or if you experience any adverse effects while taking emtricitabine.

When taking this medication, some common side effects may occur, but they are generally mild and manageable. You might experience headache, diarrhea, trouble sleeping, or changes in skin color on your palms and soles. Other common side effects include nausea, fatigue, dizziness, flu-like symptoms, a runny nose, and rash. It's important to consult your healthcare provider if these symptoms persist or worsen.

Additionally, as your immune system strengthens, it may react to infections you already have, potentially bringing back disease symptoms or causing new symptoms if it becomes overactive. In such cases, get medical help immediately if you experience unexplained weight loss, severe tiredness, persistent muscle aches, prolonged headaches, joint pain, tingling or numbness, vision changes, signs of infection like fever or swollen lymph nodes, or symptoms of an overactive thyroid.

Serious side effects are less common but require urgent attention. These include severe mental or mood changes, symptoms of liver problems like persistent nausea, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, yellowing of the skin or eyes, or signs of lactic acidosis such as rapid breathing and unusual weakness. Rarely, this medication can cause severe liver and blood issues or a serious allergic reaction characterized by rash, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.

Always contact your healthcare provider if you notice any unusual or severe effects. This ensures timely intervention to prevent complications and maintain your well-being.