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Velakast Tablet
Prescription Required
Salt Composition : Sofosbuvir,velpatasvir
Manufacturer : APRAZER HEALTHCARE PVT LTD
Origin of Medicine : India
28 Tablet(s) In A Bottle
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Introduction to Velakast Tablet
Velakast tablet contains the active components Sofosbuvir and Velpatasvir. It is used to treat chronic hepatitis C. Hepatitis C is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV). The treatment duration is often shorter than older treatment regimens. The duration can vary depending on factors such as HCV genotype, previous treatment history, and the presence of liver cirrhosis. Successful treatment with Velakast tablet can significantly reduce liver inflammation and fibrosis caused by HCV infection. By achieving viral eradication, the risk of developing liver cirrhosis, liver failure, and hepatocellular carcinoma (a type of liver cancer) can be substantially reduced.
If you have a known allergy or hypersensitivity to Velakast tablet or any of the components of the medication, you should not take it. The safety and efficacy of sofosbuvir and velpatasvir combination therapy have not been established in children under 18. Its use in the pediatric population is currently limited. It is recommended to use alternative treatment options or adjust the dosage in these cases.
Uses of Velakast Tablet
- To treat chronic hepatitis C (HCV) infection.
Therapeutic Effects of Velakast Tablet
Sofosbuvir is a direct-acting antiviral drug (DAA) that inhibits the replication of the HCV virus by targeting a specific protein necessary for viral replication. Velpatasvir is also a DAA that works by blocking the action of another protein involved in the HCV replication process.
Interaction of Velakast Tablet with other drugs
Inform the doctor about your medicines, including prescription, over-the-counter, nutritional or vitamin supplements, and herbal products. Certain medications may interact with Velakast tablet, reducing effectiveness by causing undesirable side effects.
More Information about Velakast Tablet
- Stored at controlled room temperature, between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).
- Keep away from moisture, heat, and light.
- It should not be frozen.
- Keep away from children and pets.
How to consume Velakast Tablet
Read the instructions carefully before taking Velakast tablet. Take them as directed by your doctor. Take it with or without food. This will help to improve absorption. If you experience side effects, stop taking them and talk to your doctor.
Safety Advices for Velakast Tablet
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Pregnancy
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There is limited information about the safety of Velakast tablet in pregnancy. If you are pregnant and considering taking them, talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits. They can help you decide if they are right for you.
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Breast Feeding
 ÂThere is limited information about the safety of Velakast tablet in breastfeeding. If you are pregnant or planning to become one, talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits. They can help you decide if they are right for you.
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Lungs
  If you have a chronic lung disease and are considering taking Velakast tablet, talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.
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Liver
  If you have a liver condition or had a history of liver disease, it is recommended to consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
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Alcohol
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It is generally recommended to avoid alcohol consumption during hepatitis C treatment, including Velakast tablet. Alcohol can potentially worsen liver damage and interfere with the effectiveness of the medication. It is best to consult with your healthcare provider regarding alcohol consumption during treatment.
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Driving
  Common side effects of Velakast tablet include headache, fatigue, and dizziness. Suppose you experience any of these side effects or other symptoms that may impair your ability to drive safely. In that case, you should refrain from driving or operating heavy machinery until you feel fully alert and capable.
Side Effects of Velakast Tablet
Velakast tablet cause some side effects like all medications, although not everyone will experience them.Â
Serious:
- Hepatitis B reactivation
- Severe allergic reactions
Common:
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Insomnia
- Diarrhea
- Itching (pruritus)
- Decreased appetite
- Muscle or joint pain
- Rash
- Dizziness
Word of Advice
Before initiating treatment, individuals should be screened for hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection due to the risk of HBV reactivation. Close monitoring of liver function and HBV DNA levels is necessary during and after treatment, particularly for those with a current or prior HBV infection. Additionally, potential drug interactions with other medications should be carefully evaluated, and healthcare providers should be informed about all current medications. Individuals taking amiodarone should be closely monitored for severe bradycardia (decreased heart rate) when co-administered with this medication. Dose adjustments are necessary for patients with severe renal impairment or end-stage renal disease. Assessing the potential impact on psychiatric health, especially in individuals with a history of psychiatric disorders, is necessary. Pregnancy and breastfeeding considerations should be discussed with a healthcare provider, and caution is advised for specific populations such as those with HIV/HCV co-infection and liver transplant recipients.
FAQs
Q 1. Can Velakast tablet cure hepatitis C in individuals with advanced liver disease or cirrhosis?
Velakast tablet has shown efficacy in treating hepatitis C in individuals with advanced liver disease or compensated cirrhosis. However, the response rate may vary, and close monitoring of liver function is important during and after treatment.
Q 2. Is it necessary to undergo regular blood tests while on Velakast tablet treatment?
Yes, regular blood tests are typically conducted during Velakast tablet treatment to monitor liver function, viral load, and treatment response. These tests help assess the effectiveness of the medication and ensure patient safety.
Q 3. Can Velakast tablet be used in patients with kidney disease?
Velakast tablet can be used in patients with mild to moderate kidney impairment without dose adjustment. However, patients with severe renal impairment or end-stage renal disease may require dose adjustments or alternative treatment options. It is important to discuss your kidney function with your healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.
Q 4. Can Velakast tablet be used in patients with HIV co-infection?
Velakast tablet is effective and safe in individuals with both hepatitis C and HIV co-infection. However, it is important to coordinate treatment with both infectious disease and HIV specialists to ensure proper management of both conditions.
Q 5. Can Velakast tablet cause weight gain or loss?
Weight gain or loss is not commonly reported as a side effect of the Velakast tablet. However, individual responses to medication can vary. If you experience any unexplained or concerning changes in weight during treatment, it is recommended to consult your healthcare provider for further evaluation.
Q 6. Can Velakast tablet be used in patients with a history of liver transplantation?
Velakast tablet can be used in patients with a history of liver transplantation who have recurrent hepatitis C. However, individual patient factors and the specific post-transplantation period must be considered. Consultation with a transplant hepatologist or specialist is recommended to determine the most appropriate treatment approach.
Q 7. Can Velakast tablet cause any serious side effects?
While Velakast tablet is generally well-tolerated, like any medication, it can potentially cause side effects. Common side effects include headache, fatigue, nausea, and insomnia. Serious side effects are rare but can include severe allergic reactions, changes in heart rate, and liver problems. It is important to discuss any concerns or potential side effects with your healthcare provider, who can provide further information and guidance based on your specific situation.
Fact Box of Velakast Tablet
Molecule name: Sofosbuvir, Velpatasvir | Therapeutic class: Antiviral Agent |
Pharmacological class: 1. Sofosbuvir: Nucleotide analog 2. Velpatasvir: Direct-acting antiviral (DAA) | Indications: Chronic hepatitis C (HCV) infection |
References
- Gilead Sciences Ltd, Electronic medicines compendium (EMC), [Revised on Jan 2021] [ Accessed on 24th June 2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.7294.pdf
- Gilead Sciences Inc, US Food and Drug Administration, [Revised on Aug 2017] [Accessed on 24th June 2023], https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2017/208341s007lbl.pdf
- Sarah L Greig; Sofosbuvir/Velpatasvir: A Review in Chronic Hepatitis C; Drugs; [Published on 24th June 2023]; [Accessed on 24th June 2023]; https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27730529/
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