Description

Descovy combines emtricitabine (FTC) and tenofovir alafenamide (TAF), two nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors. Emtricitabine inhibits HIV reverse transcriptase by chain termination, while TAF delivers tenofovir intracellularly with higher stability and reduced systemic exposure relative to TDF. Clinical trials (e.g. DISCOVER) demonstrate non-inferior HIV prevention compared to FTC/TDF but superior renal and bone safety.
In research, Descovy tablets support in vitro and in vivo modeling of viral replication suppression, PrEP kinetics, toxicity pathways, and drug resistance mechanisms. For laboratory research use only.

Product Specifications

Mechanism of Action & Research Applications

Emtricitabine acts as a cytidine analog preventing HIV reverse transcription; TAF is a prodrug yielding intracellular tenofovir diphosphate to competitively inhibit viral RT. Compared to tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, TAF achieves higher intracellular levels with lower plasma exposure, reducing renal and bone toxicity risks.
Used in studies of pre?exposure prophylaxis, viral load suppression, pharmacokinetics, resistance development, and toxicity profiling.

Side Effects (For Reference Only in Research Models)

Analog clinical data report common mild events: headaches, gastrointestinal upset, fatigue, weight increase, and mild lipid changes; rare severe events include hepatotoxicity, lactic acidosis, renal markers alteration, and bone density loss—helpful for designing safety parameters in research protocols.

Disclaimer

Descovy (emtricitabine & tenofovir alafenamide) tablets are strictly intended for laboratory research use only. Not for human or veterinary therapeutic, prophylactic, or diagnostic use.