Using Descovy together with Prezista is known to increase the plasma concentration of both drugs due to the nature of their irrespective active ingredients. Regardless, they can be taken concomitantly, but this may require monitoring by a healthcare provider.
Descovy is an antiretroviral drug that contains two main ingredients: tenofovir alafenamide and emtricitabine. It is used for the treatment of HIV in children and adults weighing 35 kg at least (when used with other ARV meds), and 25 kg when used with some very specific HIV drugs. Tenofovir alafenamide (TAF) is referred to as a prodrug of tenofovir, and it is categorized under nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitors just like emtricitabine. The active components act upon the HIV enzyme, a reverse transcriptase [1]. They stop viral transcription by binding to the enzyme. For higher effectiveness, it is advisable to administer Descovy with compatible antiretroviral medication.
Prezista is an antiretroviral drug usually administered with ritonavir alongside other ARVs to boost its effectiveness [2]. Prezista has darunavir as its active ingredient. It helps strengthen the immunity as well as control the amount of the infection in the blood.
Prezista is categorized under the class of protease inhibitors that function by stopping the action of the protease enzyme required for viral multiplication. Protease inhibitors actively attach themselves to this enzyme and cut off the replication process.
Descovy and Prezista interact in such a way that the plasma concentration of each drug may be increased [3]. However, darunavir is usually used in combination with other antiretrovirals to boost its effectiveness, and it is possible to use it with emtricitabine/TAF (Descovy). While both drugs can be combined, they should be taken under the close supervision of a healthcare provider. Regardless, it is important that you consult with your doctor for more information about other ways they may interact.