Ricovir contains Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF), which is an antiviral medicine used to treat infections caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis B virus (HBV). It belongs to the class of drugs called nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs). Ricovir helps reduce the amount of virus in the body, improves immune function, and lowers the risk of complications, though it does not completely cure HIV or hepatitis B.

Mechanism of action:
Tenofovir is converted inside the body to its active form, tenofovir diphosphate. This substance blocks the action of reverse transcriptase, an enzyme that HIV and HBV need to multiply. By stopping viral DNA production, Ricovir prevents the virus from growing and spreading.

Uses:

• Treatment of HIV-1 infection (usually in combination with other antiretroviral drugs)

• Treatment of chronic hepatitis B infection in adults and adolescents

• Sometimes used in HIV prevention (PrEP – pre-exposure prophylaxis), in combination with another antiviral, to lower the risk of getting HIV in high-risk individuals

Adverse effects:
Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, and tiredness. Some patients may experience skin rash, abdominal pain, or loss of appetite. Long-term use may lead to bone weakness (osteoporosis), kidney problems, or changes in liver enzymes. Rarely, lactic acidosis (a dangerous build-up of lactic acid in the body) may occur.