Viread is a medication that can be used to suppress Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection.  HIV as detected in adults and children aged two and over weighing at least 22 pounds, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Aids information website (DHHS).

Viread used for this purpose and known generically as tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in October 2001.

Viread used for HIV infection treatment has been determined to cause serious life-endangering side effects in some people. Because HIV infection leading to Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is also life-threatening, a  cost-benefit analysis undertaken with a physician is always beneficial before initiating treatment.

How Does Viread Work Against HIV/AIDS?

Viread is part of a class of drugs known as Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors (NRTIs). NRTIs interfere with an HIV enzyme known as reverse transcriptase.

As indicated by the DHHS article, NRTIs hinder the action of the enzyme and prevent the virus from replicating, reducing the overall body load. This is turn has a profound effect on the body’s ability to transmit the disease as well.

Can Viread Cure HIV/AIDS?

As indicated by WebMD, Viread or TDF is used in combination with other HIV drugs to control rather than cure HIV infection. In controlling the viral replication, its aim is to allow the immune system to work better and decrease the risk of getting secondary infections or complications which can be lethal in and of themselves such as pneumonia or cancer.

What are the Serious Side Effects of Viread and The Controversy Surrounding the Drug?

As indicated by the DHHS article and an April 2019 article in the San Mateo Daily Journal, Viread has purportedly led to the development of chronic kidney disease and serious bone fractures in numerous patients taking the drug.

The kidney problems reportedly have at times led to complete failure of the renal system. Additionally, liver issues have been attributed to the consumption of TDF. Finally, a tendency for lactic acid to build up in the blood has been noted as well.

The major controversy concerning the drug manufactured by Gilead was its potency. In April of this year, 50 Viread patients filed a lawsuit against the company in San Mateo County Superior Court.

They allege the company held onto secret knowledge of a less potent but equally effective formulation that was less harsh on kidneys and bones for years in order to maximize profits from TDF first. This omission of information purportedly led countless to suffer needlessly.

According to a Los Angeles Times article posted in May 2018, this isn’t the first time Gilead has been sued for these same allegations. Two Southern California men filed a lawsuit against the company for the delayed development of safer HIV drugs. The men’s case was reportedly funded by the Aids Healthcare Foundation, a nonprofit agency based out of Los Angeles.