References UK clinical guidance from the NHS, the British HIV Association (BHIVA), and the British Association for Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH). Last updated: April 2026.
Triumeq is a once-daily single-tablet HIV treatment containing three drugs: dolutegravir (an integrase inhibitor), abacavir and lamivudine (two NRTIs). It’s been a widely used first-line option in the UK and remains an effective choice for many people. The key consideration with Triumeq is that abacavir requires a genetic test (HLA-B*5701) before it can be prescribed.
Here’s what you need to know.
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What’s in Triumeq?
| Ingredient | Class | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Dolutegravir 50mg | Integrase inhibitor | Blocks HIV integration into CD4 DNA |
| Abacavir 600mg | NRTI | Blocks reverse transcription |
| Lamivudine 300mg | NRTI | Blocks reverse transcription |
The HLA-B*5701 Test
Before taking Triumeq, you must have a blood test for the HLA-B*5701 gene. About 5-8% of people carry this gene, and they cannot take abacavir because it causes a potentially serious hypersensitivity reaction. If you test negative for HLA-B*5701, abacavir is safe for you.
Who Can Take Triumeq?
- Adults who are HLA-B*5701 negative
- People starting treatment for the first time
- People switching from another regimen with an undetectable viral load
- Not suitable for hepatitis B co-infection (lamivudine alone is insufficient)
How to Take Triumeq
One tablet once a day, with or without food. Take antacids, calcium, iron or magnesium supplements at least 2 hours before or 6 hours after Triumeq.
Side Effects
- Insomnia (from dolutegravir)
- Headache
- Nausea (usually mild)
- Weight gain (associated with dolutegravir)
- Abacavir hypersensitivity if HLA-B*5701 positive (prevented by pre-screening)
Triumeq vs Biktarvy vs Dovato
- Triumeq — three drugs, requires HLA test, not for hepatitis B
- Biktarvy — three drugs, no HLA test needed, suitable for hepatitis B
- Dovato — two drugs, no HLA test needed, not for hepatitis B
All three are effective first-line options. Your HIV team will recommend the best fit based on your individual health profile.
Cardiovascular Considerations
Some studies have suggested a possible link between abacavir and increased cardiovascular risk, though this remains debated. If you have significant cardiovascular risk factors, your HIV team may prefer a tenofovir-based regimen instead.
Read more: Dolutegravir (Tivicay) | Biktarvy | Dovato
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I’m HLA-B*5701 positive?
You cannot take Triumeq or any abacavir-containing regimen. Your HIV team will prescribe an alternative such as Biktarvy or Dovato.
Is Triumeq still a good treatment?
Yes. It remains an effective and widely used first-line option for people who are HLA-B*5701 negative.
Can I take Triumeq with hepatitis B?
No. Triumeq doesn’t contain tenofovir, which is needed to adequately treat hepatitis B. A tenofovir-based regimen like Biktarvy is preferred.
Related reading
- Choosing the Right PrEP Drug: Truvada vs Descovy
- Dovato for HIV: A Two-Drug Regimen
- Efavirenz for HIV: An Older NNRTI Still in Use
- Eviplera: How This Anti-HIV Drug Works
- Darunavir (Prezista) for HIV: A Guide
Sources
- NHS — Sexual health conditions
- BASHH — UK clinical guidelines for STI management
- British HIV Association (BHIVA) — HIV treatment guidelines
- Terrence Higgins Trust — sexual health information
- UK Health Security Agency — STI surveillance data
Steve Page is a recognised expert on Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) and STD treatments, having published numerous articles in peer-reviewed journals and presented his research at conferences around the world. He has an in-depth understanding of the latest medical research on STDs, and is an advocate for the development of new treatments and protocols to improve the health of those affected. In addition to his research, he has dedicated his career to understanding the causes and symptoms of STDs, as well as how to best treat those impacted.
