Compare Viread vs. Ziagen

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, ratings, and more.

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Works with other medicines to treat HIV infection. Also treats Hepatitis B Virus.

Viread (tenofovir) is a first-line choice to be used in combination with other medications to treat HIV. Viread (tenofovir) is also a first-line choice in treating HBV.

Works with other medicines to treat HIV infection.

Ziagen (abacavir) is a first-choice medication that is used with others to treat HIV. It's important that your doctor test you for allergic reactions to Ziagen (abacavir) before starting the medication.

Upsides
  • Can be used with other medications to prevent HIV infection after an exposure.
  • Taken only once daily, with or without food.
  • There are newer formulations of Viread (tenofovir) available that are safer on your kidneys.
  • If tablets are hard for you to swallow, Viread (tenofovir) is available in a powder that's mixed with soft foods.
  • Ziagen (abacavir) is found in many other combination tablets.
  • Ziagen (abacavir) has few drug interactions.
  • People whose kidneys are not working as well can still take Ziagen (abacavir) without having to change its dose.
  • Kids 3 months and older can use Ziagen (abacavir).
Downsides
  • Viread (tenofovir) can't be used on its own to treat HIV infection.
  • Not recommended for patients with kidney damage.
  • Can weaken your bones.
  • Might worsen hepatitis B infections if you suddenly stop taking it.
  • Ziagen (abacavir) can increase your risk of heart attack.
  • This is not a great medication to take if you have liver problems.
  • Severe allergic reactions have happened in some patients taking Ziagen (abacavir). Your doctor will test you for any possible risk of reaction before starting Ziagen (abacavir).
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Used for
Dosage forms
  • Pill
  • Powder
  • Pill
  • Liquid
Price
Lowest price
$72.27
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Lowest price
$101.65
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Reviews
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Side effects
1possible side effects
  • Nausea
    9%
See more detailed side effects
21possible side effects
  • Nausea
    19%
  • Headache
    13%
  • Fatigue and discomfort
    12%
  • Dreams/sleep disorders
    10%
  • Nausea and vomiting
    10%
  • Severe allergic reactions
    9%
  • Fever and/or chills
    9%
  • Headaches/migraine
    7%
  • Diarrhea
    7%
  • Skin rashes
    7%
  • Rashes
    6%
  • Stomach pain
    6%
  • Depression
    6%
  • Dizziness
    6%
  • Muscle and joint pain
    6%
  • Ear/nose/throat infections
    5%
  • Viral respiratory infections
    5%
  • Anxiety
    5%
  • Bronchitis
    4%
  • Pneumonia
    4%
  • Vomiting
    2%
See more detailed side effects
Risks and risk factors
  • Lactic acidosis | Enlarged, fatty liver
    • Liver disease
    • Women
    • Obesity
  • Cannot be used to treat Hepatitis B Virus (HBV)
    • Hepatitis B Virus infection
  • Mood and behavior changes
    • History of mental illness
  • Decreased bone mineral density
    • History of bone fractures
    • Osteoporosis
  • Kidney damage
    • History of kidney damage
    • Concurrent use of other drugs known to harm kidneys
  • Hypersensitivity (allergic) reactions
    • Prior severe allergic reaction to Viread (tenofovir) or any of its individual drug components.
See more detailed risks and warnings
  • Severe allergic reactions
    • Positive genetic test (HLA B5701)
  • Lactic acidosis & severe liver damage
    • Obesity
    • Women
    • History of liver problems
  • Immune system reactivation
  • Fat redistribution
  • Heart attack
    • High blood pressure
    • High cholesterol
    • Diabetes
See more detailed risks and warnings
Learn more about Viread (tenofovir)
Learn more about Ziagen (abacavir)