SOFOSBUVIR,VELPATASVIR
Background and Date of Approval
Sofosbuvir and Velpatasvir is an antiviral medication approved for medical use on 28 June 2016.
Uses
Sofosbuvir, Velpatasvir is a fixed-dose combination consisting of 400 mg of sofosbuvir and 100mg of velpatasvir. It is indicated to treat adult and pediatric patients above 3 years of age with chronic Hepatitis C virus infection with or without liver cirrhosis.
How is it administered?
For patients with compensated and decompensated cirrhosis, the recommended duration of treatment is 12 weeks. However, for decompensated cirrhosis, this treatment is prescribed along with Ribavirin. The recommended dosage for adults is one tablet per day with or without food. The ideal dose for pediatric patients is calculated based on body weight. For children below 6 years of age, it is advisable to administer Sofosbuvir, Velpatasvir tablets with food.
Side Effects
The common side effects that are likely to occur while you are on the treatment with Sofosbuvir, Velpatasvir tablet are headache, tiredness, vomiting, anemia, nausea, insomnia, and diarrhea. Report to your healthcare provider right away if you experience a slow heartbeat.
Warnings
Your healthcare provider will test for hepatitis B infection and possible reinfection before initiating this treatment. Tell your healthcare provider before starting this treatment if you have been diagnosed with diabetes or problems in your heart, liver, or kidneys. During the Sofosbuvir, Velpatasvir, and Tablet treatment, your doctor may periodically monitor your INR, blood sugar, and liver and kidney parameters to prevent serious complications.
Precautions
It is not recommended to use Sofosbuvir, Velpatasvir tablets during pregnancy and breastfeeding. This medication will be prescribed only if clearly needed. Tell your healthcare provider before starting the treatment if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, thinking you could be pregnant or planning to have a baby. Discuss effective contraceptive methods with your physician to prevent unwanted pregnancy during this treatment.
Word of Advice
HIV and Hepatitis B testing must be completed prior to initiating this treatment. A diet balanced in essential nutrients should be maintained throughout the course of therapy.
References
1. Gilead Sciences, Inc., [Revised on Apr 2022] [Accessed on 25th Aug 2022], https://www.gilead.com/~/media/Files/pdfs/medicines/liver-disease/epclusa/epclusa_pi.pdf 2. Bonaventura A, Montecucco F., Sofosbuvir/velpatasvir: A promising combination, World J Hepatol., 2016 Jul 8, 8(19):785-9, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4937166/pdf/WJH-8-785.pdf
Frequently Asked Questions
How to store Sofosbuvir, Velpatasvir Tablet?
Store Sofosbuvir, Velpatasvir Tablet below 30°C and keep them away from the reach of children.
Is it safe to use Sofosbuvir, Velpatasvir tablet during pregnancy and lactation?
It is not recommended to use Sofosbuvir, Velpatasvir tablet during pregnancy and breastfeeding. This medication will be prescribed only if clearly needed. Tell your healthcare provider before starting the treatment if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, thinking you could be pregnant, or planning to have a baby. Discuss effective contraceptive methods with your physician to prevent unwanted pregnancy during this treatment.
What should you not take with Sofosbuvir, Velpatasvir tablet?
It is not recommended to take rifampin, St. John's Wort, carbamazepine, or amiodarone while on this treatment. Tell your healthcare provider if you are taking any of the above medications, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins are herbal supplements before you start this treatment.
What are the side effects of Velpatasvir, Sofosbuvir Tablet?
Headache, tiredness, vomiting, anemia, nausea, insomnia and diarrhea are some of the most common side effects of Sofosbuvir, Velpatasvir tablet.
At what time should you take Sofosbuvir, Velpatasvir tablet?
You can take Sofosbuvir, Velpatasvir tablet either in the morning or evening, but ensure that you take the tablet at the same time every day.
What are the symptoms of Hepatitis B reinfection?
Fainting, dizziness, lightheadedness, feeling unwell, weakness, extreme tiredness, breathlessness, chest pain, confusion and memory problems are some of the most common symptoms of hepatitis B reinfection. Contact your healthcare practitioner right away if you experience any of these symptoms.
How will you be monitored during this treatment?
Your healthcare provider will test for hepatitis B infection and possible reinfection before initiating this treatment. During the Sofosbuvir, Velpatasvir tablet treatment, your doctor may periodically monitor your INR, blood sugar, liver and kidney parameters to prevent serious complications.