Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate (brand name Viread) is a prescription antiviral medication used to treat HIV-1 infection, prevent HIV through pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), and manage chronic hepatitis B.

It's one of the most widely prescribed antivirals in the world, and in 2026, generic versions have made it more accessible and affordable than ever. Here's everything you need to know.

What Is Tenofovir Disoproxil?

Tenofovir Disoproxil is a nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NtRTI). It belongs to a class of drugs that block an enzyme called reverse transcriptase, which HIV and hepatitis B viruses use to replicate. By interfering with this process, Tenofovir Disoproxil helps control viral replication and reduce viral load.

The medication is a prodrug, meaning it's converted into its active form (tenofovir diphosphate) inside the body. For a deeper explanation of how it works, see our article on Tenofovir Disoproxil's mechanism of action.

Tenofovir Disoproxil is not a controlled substance and is available in both brand-name (Viread) and generic formulations.

What Is Tenofovir Disoproxil Used For?

Tenofovir Disoproxil has three FDA-approved uses:

1. HIV-1 Treatment

Tenofovir Disoproxil is used in combination with other antiretroviral medications to treat HIV-1 infection in adults and children aged 2 years and older. It is never used alone for HIV treatment — it's always part of a multi-drug regimen.

2. HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP)

For people who are HIV-negative but at high risk of infection, Tenofovir Disoproxil (often combined with Emtricitabine as the combination pill Truvada or its generics) is taken daily to prevent HIV. When taken consistently, PrEP reduces the risk of getting HIV from sex by about 99%.

PrEP is approved for at-risk adults and adolescents weighing at least 35 kg.

3. Chronic Hepatitis B

Tenofovir Disoproxil is approved for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in adults and children aged 12 and older. It helps suppress HBV replication and reduce liver damage.

Off-Label Uses

Tenofovir Disoproxil is also used off-label for:

• Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) — taken after potential HIV exposure to prevent infection
• Hepatitis B treatment in HIV co-infected patients

How Is Tenofovir Disoproxil Taken?

Tenofovir Disoproxil comes in two forms:

• Oral tablet — 300 mg, taken once daily
• Oral powder — 40 mg per scoop, for patients who can't swallow tablets (mixed with soft food)

Key dosing information:

• Take it once daily, with or without food
• Swallow tablets whole
• Do not stop abruptly — especially if you have hepatitis B, as this can trigger a severe liver flare
• Take it at the same time each day for best results
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's close to your next dose, skip the missed one — don't double up

For patients with kidney impairment (creatinine clearance below 50 mL/min), dose adjustments are required. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dosing schedule.

Who Should Not Take Tenofovir Disoproxil?

Tenofovir Disoproxil is not appropriate for everyone. You should not take it if you:

• Are allergic to Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate or any of its ingredients
• Are using it for PrEP but have not been confirmed HIV-negative (taking it while HIV-positive without a full treatment regimen can lead to drug resistance)

Use with caution if you have:

• Kidney disease or reduced kidney function
• Osteoporosis or low bone mineral density
• Liver disease (especially hepatitis B — stopping the drug can cause flares)

Be sure to tell your doctor about all medications you take, as Tenofovir Disoproxil has important drug interactions to be aware of. Also review our guide on side effects before starting treatment.

How Much Does Tenofovir Disoproxil Cost?

Cost varies depending on whether you're using the brand name or generic, and whether you have insurance:

• Brand name (Viread) — Cash price ranges from $50–$400/month depending on the pharmacy
• Generic Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate — Typically $30–$80/month with a discount card
• With insurance — Often covered on preferred formulary tiers, especially for HIV treatment and PrEP. Copays vary by plan.

Ways to Save

• Gilead Advancing Access — Copay coupon for commercially insured patients, potentially reducing costs to $0
• Ready, Set, PrEP — Federal program that covers Tenofovir Disoproxil at no cost for PrEP in qualifying individuals
• Patient assistance programs — Gilead and organizations like NeedyMeds and RxAssist offer programs for uninsured patients
• Discount cards — GoodRx, SingleCare, and other platforms offer significant savings on generic versions

For a comprehensive breakdown, see our guide on how to save money on Tenofovir Disoproxil.

Final Thoughts

Tenofovir Disoproxil has been a cornerstone of HIV treatment and prevention for over two decades. With generic options now widely available, it's more affordable and accessible than ever. Whether you're starting PrEP, beginning HIV treatment, or managing hepatitis B, Tenofovir Disoproxil is a proven, effective option.

If you need help finding it, Medfinder can help you locate a pharmacy with Tenofovir Disoproxil in stock near you. And if you need a prescriber, check our guide on how to find a doctor who can prescribe Tenofovir Disoproxil.