Biktarvy Generic Name:Bictegravir/Emtricitabine/Tenofovir Alafenamide

Biktarvy generic name

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Biktarvy Generic Name: What You Need to Know About Bictegravir/Emtricitabine/Tenofovir Alafenamide

Reading Time: 16 minutes | Last Updated: October 2025

Meta Title: Biktarvy Generic Name: Bictegravir/Emtricitabine/Tenofovir Alafenamide Info

Meta Description: The Biktarvy generic name is bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide (BIC/FTC/TAF). Learn about this HIV medication’s composition, how it works, and when generic versions will be available in the US.

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What Is the Biktarvy Generic Name?

The Biktarvy generic name is bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide, commonly abbreviated as BIC/FTC/TAF. This combination of three active pharmaceutical ingredients makes Biktarvy one of the most effective single-tablet regimens (STR) for HIV-1 treatment.

Understanding the Biktarvy generic name is important for several reasons:

  • Identifying the medication in medical records and prescriptions
  • Understanding how the medication works
  • Comparing with other HIV treatment options
  • Researching generic alternatives available internationally
  • Discussing treatment options with healthcare providers

Brand name: Biktarvy®
Manufacturer: Gilead Sciences
FDA Approval: February 2018
Drug Class: Fixed-dose combination antiretroviral therapy (ART)

Breaking Down the Biktarvy Generic Name: Three Active Ingredients

The Biktarvy generic name reflects its three-drug combination. Each component plays a specific role in HIV treatment:

1. Bictegravir (BIC) – 50 mg

Drug Class: Integrase strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI)

How it works: Bictegravir prevents HIV from integrating its genetic material into human DNA. Without integration, the virus cannot replicate and produce new viral particles.

Key features:

  • Newest component of the Biktarvy formulation
  • High genetic barrier to resistance
  • Once-daily dosing
  • Fewer drug interactions than earlier integrase inhibitors

2. Emtricitabine (FTC) – 200 mg

Drug Class: Nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI)

How it works: Emtricitabine blocks the reverse transcriptase enzyme that HIV uses to convert its RNA into DNA, preventing viral replication.

Key features:

  • Also known by brand name Emtriva®
  • Part of many HIV treatment regimens
  • Well-tolerated with minimal side effects
  • Long half-life allowing once-daily dosing

3. Tenofovir Alafenamide (TAF) – 25 mg

Drug Class: Nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NtRTI)

How it works: Like emtricitabine, TAF blocks reverse transcriptase but through a slightly different mechanism, providing complementary viral suppression.

Key features:

  • Newer formulation of tenofovir (compared to TDF)
  • Lower dose required (25 mg vs. 300 mg of TDF)
  • Improved kidney and bone safety profile
  • Better tolerability with fewer side effects

Complete Guide to HIV Treatment Medications <!– Internal link –>

How the Biktarvy Generic Name Components Work Together

The three drugs in the Biktarvy generic name (bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide) work synergistically to suppress HIV replication at multiple stages:

Step 1 – Viral Entry Prevention (Enhanced Effect):
While Biktarvy doesn’t directly prevent viral entry, the combination’s effectiveness reduces viral load so significantly that transmission risk is nearly eliminated.

Step 2 – Reverse Transcription Blockade:
Emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide both block the reverse transcriptase enzyme, preventing HIV RNA from being converted to DNA. Using two drugs from this class creates a higher barrier to resistance.

Step 3 – Integration Inhibition:
Bictegravir prevents any HIV DNA that is created from integrating into human chromosomes, stopping the virus from establishing permanent infection in cells.

The Result:
This three-pronged approach achieves viral suppression in over 90% of treatment-naive patients, often reaching undetectable levels (HIV RNA < 50 copies/mL) within 12-24 weeks.

Biktarvy vs Other HIV Medications: Generic Name Comparisons

Understanding the Biktarvy generic name helps when comparing it to alternative HIV treatments:

Similar Medications by Generic Name:

Biktarvy (bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide) vs:

  • Descovy (emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide) – Contains 2 of the 3 Biktarvy components; requires additional medication
  • Genvoya (elvitegravir/cobicistat/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide) – Different integrase inhibitor, requires boosting agent
  • Triumeq (dolutegravir/abacavir/lamivudine) – Different integrase inhibitor and NRTI backbone
  • Dovato (dolutegravir/lamivudine) – Two-drug regimen, different composition

Advantages of Biktarvy’s Generic Name Components:

  • Newest integrase inhibitor (bictegravir) with high resistance barrier
  • TAF formulation improves kidney and bone safety vs older TDF
  • Single tablet, once-daily dosing
  • No boosting agent required
  • Minimal drug-drug interactions

HIV Medication Comparison Guide <!– Internal link –>

FDA Approval and the Biktarvy Generic Name

When the FDA approved Biktarvy in February 2018, it was designated with both its brand name (Biktarvy®) and its biktarvy generic name (bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide) for official documentation.

FDA-approved indications:

  • Treatment of HIV-1 infection in adults and pediatric patients weighing at least 14 kg
  • For patients with no antiretroviral treatment history (treatment-naive)
  • For virologically-suppressed patients on a stable regimen
  • Not recommended for patients with certain resistance mutations

You can find complete prescribing information and the official Biktarvy generic name in FDA documentation at the <a href=”https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-approvals-and-databases/approved-drug-products-therapeutic-equivalence-evaluations-orange-book” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener noreferrer”>FDA Drug Approvals and Databases</a>.

When Will Generic Versions of Biktarvy Be Available in the US?

While patients often search for “biktarvy generic” hoping to find affordable alternatives, the reality is more complex:

US Patent Status

Generic Biktarvy will NOT be available in the United States until 2027-2036 due to patent protections held by Gilead Sciences. The patents cover:

  • Bictegravir compound and composition
  • Pharmaceutical formulations
  • Methods of use and treatment
  • Combination therapy patents

International Generic Availability

However, generic versions using the Biktarvy generic name components ARE available internationally:

Countries with generic Biktarvy:

  • India (since 2019)
  • Thailand
  • South Africa
  • 97 countries total under Gilead’s voluntary licensing program

US exclusion: The United States, Canada, and most European countries are specifically excluded from Gilead’s voluntary licensing agreements, meaning generic manufacturers cannot sell there even though the generics exist.

Price comparison:

  • US Brand Biktarvy: $4,126-$4,216 per month
  • International Generic: $200-400 per month
  • Savings: $44,000-$48,000 annually

Learn More About Generic Biktarvy Availability and Access Options <!– Internal link to Article 1 –>

Understanding Prescriptions: How the Biktarvy Generic Name Appears

When healthcare providers prescribe Biktarvy, it may appear on your prescription in several ways:

Common prescription formats:

  • Brand name: “Biktarvy 50/200/25 mg tablet”
  • Generic name: “Bictegravir/Emtricitabine/Tenofovir Alafenamide 50/200/25 mg”
  • Abbreviated: “BIC/FTC/TAF 50/200/25 mg”

Important prescription details:

  • Strength: Always 50 mg/200 mg/25 mg (one size only)
  • Form: Film-coated tablet
  • Dosing: One tablet once daily with or without food
  • Supply: Typically 30-day (30 tablets) or 90-day (90 tablets)

Why the Generic Name Matters for Prescriptions

Understanding the Biktarvy generic name is crucial when:

  • Traveling internationally – Customs may recognize generic names more readily
  • Accessing international pharmacies – They may list by generic name
  • Insurance claims – Some systems use generic names for processing
  • Medical records – Electronic health records often default to generic names
  • Drug interaction checking – Pharmacists use generic names to screen for interactions

How to Read Your HIV Medication Prescription <!– Internal link –>

Clinical Studies Using the Biktarvy Generic Name

Major clinical trials established Biktarvy’s efficacy using the bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide combination:

Key Clinical Trials

Study 1489 (Treatment-Naive Patients):

  • Compared Biktarvy vs. Dolutegravir + FTC/TAF
  • 96% achieved viral suppression at Week 48
  • Superior tolerability profile

Study 1490 (Treatment-Naive Patients):

  • Compared Biktarvy vs. Dolutegravir/Abacavir/Lamivudine
  • Non-inferior efficacy demonstrated
  • Better weight stability with Biktarvy

Study 1844 (Virologically Suppressed Patients):

  • Switched from DTG/ABC/3TC to Biktarvy
  • Maintained viral suppression in 95% at Week 48
  • No treatment-emergent resistance

Study 1878 (Virologically Suppressed Patients):

  • Switched from boosted ART regimens to Biktarvy
  • 94% maintained suppression at Week 48
  • Improved lipid profiles

These studies, published in leading medical journals, consistently refer to Biktarvy by both its brand name and generic name (bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide) interchangeably.

Side Effects Associated with Biktarvy Generic Name Components

Each component of the Biktarvy generic name contributes to the medication’s overall side effect profile:

Common Side Effects (>5% of patients)

From Bictegravir:

  • Headache
  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea

From Emtricitabine:

  • Hyperpigmentation (skin darkening on palms/soles)
  • Generally well-tolerated

From Tenofovir Alafenamide:

  • Nausea
  • Better tolerability than older TDF formulation

Serious Side Effects (Rare)

Lactic Acidosis (from NRTIs):

  • Rare but serious metabolic complication
  • Symptoms: fatigue, muscle pain, difficulty breathing

Kidney Problems:

  • Much less common with TAF than with older TDF
  • Regular monitoring of kidney function recommended

Bone Density Loss:

  • Reduced risk with TAF vs. TDF
  • Bone density monitoring for high-risk patients

Hepatitis B Reactivation:

  • Can occur if Biktarvy is discontinued
  • Never stop suddenly without medical supervision

Drug Interactions with Biktarvy Components

The Biktarvy generic name components have relatively few drug interactions compared to older HIV medications:

Medications that reduce Biktarvy effectiveness:

  • Rifampin (used for tuberculosis)
  • Rifabutin
  • St. John’s Wort
  • Certain antacids (separate dosing by 2+ hours)

Medications requiring dose adjustment:

  • Metformin (diabetes medication)
  • Certain anticonvulsants

Generally safe combinations:

  • Most antibiotics
  • Antidepressants
  • Hormonal contraceptives
  • Most cardiovascular medications

Complete HIV Drug Interaction Checker <!– Internal link –>

Insurance Coverage and the Biktarvy Generic Name

Insurance companies may list Biktarvy under either its brand name or generic name (bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide) in their formularies:

Insurance Considerations

Formulary placement:

  • Most insurers place Biktarvy in preferred specialty tiers
  • Prior authorization often required
  • Step therapy may require trying older medications first

Coverage variations:

  • Commercial insurance: Usually covered with co-pay ($30-$200 monthly)
  • Medicare Part D: Covered but often in highest cost tier
  • Medicaid: Coverage varies by state
  • No insurance: List price $4,200+ per month

Prior authorization requirements: Insurance may require documentation of:

  • HIV-1 diagnosis confirmation
  • Resistance testing results
  • Previous treatment history
  • Medical necessity justification

Patient Assistance Programs

If insurance coverage is inadequate, programs use the Biktarvy generic name for eligibility:

Gilead Advancing Access®:

  • Co-pay assistance up to $7,200/year
  • Free medication program for uninsured
  • Must meet income requirements

Ryan White Programs:

Complete Guide to HIV Medication Financial Assistance <!– Internal link –>

Pharmacology: How Biktarvy Generic Name Components Are Processed

Understanding how the body processes the Biktarvy generic name components helps explain dosing and monitoring:

Pharmacokinetics

Bictegravir:

  • Absorption: Rapid, not significantly affected by food
  • Peak concentration: 2-4 hours after dosing
  • Half-life: ~17 hours (allows once-daily dosing)
  • Metabolism: Primarily by UGT1A1 and CYP3A enzymes
  • Elimination: Feces (60%), urine (35%)

Emtricitabine:

  • Absorption: Rapid and extensive
  • Peak concentration: 1-2 hours
  • Half-life: ~10 hours (intracellular half-life >39 hours)
  • Metabolism: Minimal hepatic metabolism
  • Elimination: Primarily unchanged in urine

Tenofovir Alafenamide:

  • Absorption: Enhanced by food (increases levels by 60%)
  • Peak concentration: 0.5-2 hours
  • Half-life: 0.51 hours (plasma), but intracellular active metabolite persists
  • Metabolism: Converted to tenofovir in cells
  • Elimination: Primarily through feces

Why Once-Daily Dosing Works

The complementary pharmacokinetic profiles of the Biktarvy generic name components enable convenient once-daily administration:

  • Long half-lives maintain therapeutic drug levels for 24 hours
  • Intracellular persistence of active metabolites provides sustained effect
  • No food restrictions improve adherence

Pediatric Use: Biktarvy Generic Name in Children

The FDA has approved Biktarvy (bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide) for pediatric patients:

Age and weight requirements:

  • Children weighing ≥14 kg (approximately 30 pounds)
  • Typically ages 2 years and older
  • Same tablet formulation and dosing as adults

Pediatric considerations:

  • Must be able to swallow tablets whole
  • Regular growth and development monitoring
  • Bone density screening recommended
  • Same efficacy as in adults (>90% viral suppression)

Alternative formulations: For children who cannot swallow tablets, individual components may be available as:

  • Emtricitabine oral solution
  • Tenofovir alafenamide granules (if approved)
  • Bictegravir is only available in tablet form currently

HIV Treatment in Children: Complete Guide <!– Internal link –>

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Biktarvy Generic Name Safety

For pregnant individuals living with HIV, understanding the Biktarvy generic name components’ safety profile is critical:

Pregnancy Safety Data

Bictegravir:

  • Limited human data available
  • Animal studies show no adverse fetal effects
  • Generally considered acceptable if already on treatment

Emtricitabine:

  • Extensive safety data in pregnancy
  • No increased risk of birth defects
  • Recommended component of pregnancy regimens

Tenofovir Alafenamide:

  • Growing safety data in pregnancy
  • Preferred over older TDF formulation
  • Good maternal and fetal safety profile

Pregnancy considerations:

  • Continue Biktarvy if already virologically suppressed
  • May initiate Biktarvy during pregnancy after discussion with provider
  • Regular viral load monitoring essential
  • Prevents mother-to-child HIV transmission

Breastfeeding Considerations

US guidelines: Advise against breastfeeding with HIV due to transmission risk, even with undetectable viral load

International guidelines: In resource-limited settings where formula is unavailable, breastfeeding with ART may be safer than formula without clean water

Components in breast milk:

  • Emtricitabine: Present in breast milk
  • Tenofovir: Present in breast milk
  • Bictegravir: Unknown if present (assumed yes)

Frequently Asked Questions About Biktarvy Generic Name

What is the generic name for Biktarvy?

The Biktarvy generic name is bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide, often abbreviated as BIC/FTC/TAF. This three-drug combination forms a complete HIV treatment regimen in a single tablet.

Is there a generic version of Biktarvy available?

In the US: No. Generic Biktarvy will not be available in the United States until 2027-2036 due to patent protections.

Internationally: Yes. Generic versions using the bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide combination are available in India and 96 other countries under Gilead’s voluntary licensing program.

Can I substitute another medication for Biktarvy?

Never substitute HIV medications without consulting your healthcare provider. While other medications contain some of the same components (like emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide), the complete Biktarvy combination requires all three components to maintain viral suppression.

Why does my prescription say the long generic name instead of “Biktarvy”?

Pharmacies, insurance companies, and electronic health records often use generic names (bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide) for standardization. Both names refer to the identical medication.

How do I pronounce the Biktarvy generic name?

Bictegravir: bik-TEG-rah-veer
Emtricitabine: em-trye-SYE-ta-been
Tenofovir alafenamide: te-NOE-fo-veer al-a-FEN-a-mide

Most healthcare providers and patients simply say “Biktarvy” or “BIC/FTC/TAF” for convenience.

Are the generic components of Biktarvy available separately?

Emtricitabine + Tenofovir alafenamide: Yes, available as Descovy® (brand) or generic equivalents in some countries

Bictegravir: Not available separately; only in the Biktarvy combination

What does 50/200/25 mean on my prescription?

The numbers 50/200/25 represent the milligram doses of each component:

  • 50 mg bictegravir
  • 200 mg emtricitabine
  • 25 mg tenofovir alafenamide

This is the only strength available for Biktarvy.

Alternatives to Biktarvy: Other Generic Name Options

If Biktarvy is not suitable or affordable, discussing alternatives with your healthcare provider is important:

Similar Single-Tablet Regimens

Dovato (dolutegravir/lamivudine):

  • Two-drug regimen (fewer components)
  • Lower cost in some cases
  • Not for patients with high viral loads or certain resistance

Triumeq (dolutegravir/abacavir/lamivudine):

  • Different integrase inhibitor
  • Requires HLA-B*5701 testing before use
  • May have more weight gain than Biktarvy

Genvoya (elvitegravir/cobicistat/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide):

  • Four-drug combination
  • Requires boosting agent (cobicistat)
  • More drug interactions than Biktarvy

Symtuza (darunavir/cobicistat/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide):

  • Protease inhibitor-based regimen
  • For treatment-experienced patients
  • More drug interactions

Multi-Tablet Regimens

Some patients may benefit from customized combinations using individual medications. Your provider can help determine the best approach based on:

  • Resistance profile
  • Side effect tolerance
  • Drug interactions
  • Cost considerations
  • Dosing convenience preferences

Complete HIV Treatment Options Guide <!– Internal link –>

Research and Development: History of the Biktarvy Generic Name

The development of bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide represents significant advances in HIV treatment:

Timeline

2001: Emtricitabine (FTC) approved by FDA
2015: Tenofovir alafenamide (TAF) approved as improved tenofovir formulation
2018: Bictegravir developed and approved in combination (Biktarvy)
2019: First generic versions launched internationally
2021: Pediatric indication approved (weight-based dosing)
2025: Still patent-protected in US; widely available as generic internationally

Scientific Advantages

The Biktarvy generic name components represent “best-in-class” selections:

Bictegravir advantages over older integrase inhibitors:

  • No boosting required (unlike elvitegravir)
  • Higher resistance barrier
  • Fewer drug interactions
  • Better weight profile than dolutegravir

TAF advantages over older TDF:

  • 90% lower plasma tenofovir levels
  • Better kidney safety profile
  • Improved bone density outcomes
  • Lower dose required

Future Developments

Long-acting formulations: Research is ongoing into long-acting versions of integrase inhibitors, though bictegravir long-acting is not yet available.

Generic competition: When US patents expire (2027-2036), multiple manufacturers will produce generic versions, potentially reducing costs by 80-90%.

Monitoring While Taking Biktarvy (Bictegravir/Emtricitabine/Tenofovir Alafenamide)

Regular medical monitoring ensures the Biktarvy generic name components are working effectively and safely:

Recommended Testing Schedule

Baseline (before starting):

  • HIV viral load
  • CD4 count
  • Resistance testing
  • Hepatitis B and C screening
  • Kidney function (creatinine, eGFR)
  • Lipid panel
  • Bone density (if risk factors)
  • Pregnancy test (if applicable)

Weeks 4-8:

  • HIV viral load (should be declining)
  • Tolerability check

Week 12-24:

  • HIV viral load (goal: <50 copies/mL)
  • CD4 count

Every 3-6 months (ongoing):

  • HIV viral load (maintain <50)
  • CD4 count
  • Kidney function
  • Lipid panel (annually)

As needed:

  • Resistance testing if viral load increases
  • Bone density screening
  • Drug interaction assessment with new medications

Complete HIV Monitoring and Lab Testing Guide <!– Internal link –>

Storage and Handling: Biktarvy Generic Name Products

Proper storage ensures the bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide combination maintains potency:

Storage requirements:

  • Temperature: Store at room temperature, 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C)
  • Container: Keep in original bottle with desiccant
  • Protection: Protect from moisture and excessive heat
  • Travel: No refrigeration required; portable for travel

Expiration:

  • Check expiration date on bottle
  • Do not use expired medication
  • Dispose of properly through pharmacy take-back programs

Tablet appearance:

  • Purple, capsule-shaped, film-coated tablet
  • Debossed with “GSI” on one side and “9883” on the other
  • If appearance differs, verify with pharmacist

Patient Assistance and Advocacy Resources

Organizations supporting patients prescribed bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide:

Financial Assistance Programs

Patient Advocacy Organizations

  • The AIDS Institute – HIV policy and advocacy
  • Treatment Action Group (TAG) – Research and treatment advocacy
  • HIV Medicine Association (HIVMA) – Clinical guidelines and provider education
  • National Minority AIDS Council (NMAC) – Addressing disparities in HIV care

Complete Directory of HIV Support Organizations <!– Internal link –>

Educational Resources

  • AIDS.gov – Federal HIV information portal
  • HIVinfo (AIDSinfo) – Treatment guidelines and drug information
  • The Well Project – Information for women living with HIV
  • POZ Magazine – HIV news and community

Conclusion: Understanding the Biktarvy Generic Name

The Biktarvy generic name—bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide—represents a highly effective, well-tolerated single-tablet HIV treatment regimen. Understanding this generic name helps patients:

Key Takeaways

✓ The Biktarvy generic name is bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide (BIC/FTC/TAF)

✓ Three components work synergistically to block HIV replication at multiple stages

✓ Approved for adults and children weighing ≥14 kg with HIV-1 infection

✓ No generic available in US until 2027-2036 due to patent protections

✓ Generic versions exist internationally in India and 96 other countries

✓ Highly effective with >90% achieving viral suppression in clinical trials

✓ Well-tolerated with improved safety profile compared to older regimens

✓ Once-daily dosing with or without food improves adherence

Taking Action

If you’ve been prescribed Biktarvy (bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide):

  1. Understand your medication – Know what each component does
  2. Take as prescribed – Adherence is critical for viral suppression
  3. Attend monitoring appointments – Regular labs ensure treatment success
  4. Explore financial assistance if cost is a barrier
  5. Communicate with your provider about any concerns or side effects
  6. Learn about international generic options if brand-name is unaffordable

Looking for more information about affordable access to generic Biktarvy?
Read our complete guide to generic Biktarvy availability and international access options →

Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider about HIV treatment decisions. Do not start, stop, or change medications without professional medical guidance.

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Word Count: 4,289 words
Reading Time: 16 minutes | Last Updated: October 2025