Tenofovir maleate is primarily used in the treatment of HIV and chronic hepatitis B infections. It works by inhibiting the reverse transcriptase enzyme, which is essential for viral replication, thereby reducing the viral load in the body. In HIV treatment, it is often combined with other antiretroviral agents as part of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) to enhance efficacy and prevent drug resistance. For hepatitis B, it effectively suppresses viral DNA and improves liver function. Additionally, it is sometimes prescribed for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in individuals at high risk of HIV infection to prevent transmission. Its long-acting nature and favorable safety profile make it a key component in managing these viral infections.