What is Ricovir-EM?

Ricovir-EM is a generic version of the medication used for PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis). It contains the same active ingredients, efficacy, and safety profile as the original brand-name drug (Truvada®) and is used for both the treatment and prevention of HIV.

Active Composition

Each film-coated tablet of Ricovir-EM contains two active ingredients in the following doses:

• 300 mg of Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate (TDF)
• 200 mg of Emtricitabine (FTC)

Manufacturer and Approvals

Ricovir-EM is manufactured by Mylan (now part of the company Viatris), a major global pharmaceutical company.

The combination of Emtricitabine 200mg / Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate 300mg produced by Mylan is a highly-regulated, quality-assured medication approved by major international health bodies:

• World Health Organization (WHO): The medication is included in the WHO's Prequalification of Medicines Programme (PQ). This certification ensures it meets global standards for quality, safety, and efficacy, and it is widely procured by global health programs for PrEP and HIV treatment.
• U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA): Mylan's generic Emtricitabine/Tenofovir DF is approved for use in the United States.
• European Medicines Agency (EMA): The medication is also authorized for marketing in the European Union.

External References (Regulatory Agencies):

• WHO Prequalified Medicines List
• U.S. FDA Approved Drug Products (Drugs@FDA)
• European Medicines Agency (EMA) Medicines Database

Dosage and Administration of Ricovir-EM (PrEP)

⚠️ IMPORTANT WARNING: NEGATIVE HIV TEST REQUIRED

It is absolutely essential to confirm a negative HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) test result before starting Ricovir-EM for PrEP.

• You must get tested for HIV regularly (usually every 3 months) while taking PrEP.

Daily Use Regimen (Daily PrEP)

This is the most recommended method in most clinical guidelines due to its high and consistent efficacy when taken correctly.

• Dose: Take one (1) Ricovir-EM tablet every day.
• Instructions:
  • The pill should be taken at approximately the same time each day to maintain a consistent level of protection.
  • It can be taken with or without food.
  • To reach maximum protection, daily PrEP must be taken continuously for at least 7 days (for protection during anal sex) and 20 days (for protection during vaginal sex.

On-Demand Use (PrEP 2-1-1 or "Event-Driven")

This regimen is an alternative to daily use, but it should only be followed under strict medical supervision and recommendation. It has generally only been studied and recommended for men who have sex with men (MSM) who can plan their sexual encounters in advance.

Exact Instructions (2-1-1 Regimen):

1. First Dose (Double): Take two (2) pills together, between 2 and 24 hours before sexual intercourse.
2. Second Dose (Single): Take one (1) pill 24 hours after the first (double) dose.
3. Third Dose (Single): Take one (1) pill 24 hours after the second dose (i.e., 48 hours after the double dose).

If you have sex for several days in a row:
You must continue taking one pill every 24 hours (for as long as you are having sex) and continue taking one pill daily until 48 hours (two days) after the last sexual encounter.

Medical Warning: Do not use this regimen without first consulting a healthcare professional. Your doctor will determine if this method is appropriate for you based on your risk type, frequency of exposure, and ability to adhere to the strict schedule.