This page contains brief details about the drug , it's indication, dosage & administaration, mechanism of action, related brands with strength, warnings and common side effects.

Background and Date of Approval

Sofosbuvir, Velpatasvir is an antiviral medication that was approved for its medical use on 28th June 2016.

Mechanism of Action of undefined

Sofosbuvir, Velpatasvir tablet is a Hepatitis C virus nucleotide analog belonging to the class of NS5B polymerase inhibitor. This combination stops RNA synthesis in the Hepatitis C virus and acts as a chain terminator by stopping viral replication.

Uses of undefined

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.

undefined Drug administaration and Dosage available

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.

Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of undefined

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.

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.

Word Of Advice

You will be tested for HIV and Hepatitis B infection before starting this treatment. It is essential to maintain a diet well-balanced in nutrients during this treatment.

Frequently Asked Question

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

Disclaimer

The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice, it is meant for educational purposes only. For further details consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you are eligible to receive this treatment.