I am a Hepatitis B patient and have been taking Tenvir for the past two years. Although my HBV DNA level is now zero, my doctor advised me to continue the medication. Recently, I have been experiencing severe hair loss and back pain from my hips to my neck, making me feel as though my bones are weak. Are these symptoms side effects of Tenvir or Hepatitis B, and what medical advice or alternative treatments should I discuss with my doctor?

It is excellent that your viral load is undetectable. However, stopping treatment can cause the virus to reactivate, which is why your doctor advised continuing. Your back pain and feeling of weak bones may be side effects of Tenvir (tenofovir disoproxil fumarate), which can sometimes reduce bone density. Hair loss is less common but possible. Please do not stop your medication. Instead, consult your doctor to discuss these symptoms. They may recommend a bone density scan (DEXA) and check your kidney function. You can also discuss switching to alternative medications with a better bone safety profile, such as tenofovir alafenamide or entecavir.