Sofosbuvir + Velpatasvir Tablet – Summary
Brand Names:
VELPANAT (by Natco Pharma)
Epclusa (international brand by Gilead Sciences)
Drug Class:
Direct-Acting Antiviral Agents (DAAs)
NS5B polymerase inhibitor (Sofosbuvir)
NS5A inhibitor (Velpatasvir)
Composition:
Each tablet contains:
Sofosbuvir 400 mg
Velpatasvir 100 mg
Indications / Uses:
Treatment of Chronic Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) infection in adults and children (≥6 years or ≥17 kg)
Effective against all major HCV genotypes (1–6)
Mechanism of Action:
Sofosbuvir inhibits the HCV RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (NS5B), stopping viral replication.
Velpatasvir inhibits the NS5A protein, crucial for viral replication and assembly.
Combined, they block multiple steps in the HCV replication cycle, achieving high cure rates.
Dosage & Administration:
1 tablet once daily with or without food
Duration: Typically 12 weeks
In patients with cirrhosis, ribavirin may be added, depending on the case
Side Effects:
Common:
Fatigue
Headache
Nausea
Insomnia
Serious (rare):
Bradycardia (especially with amiodarone)
Liver enzyme elevations
Reactivation of hepatitis B (in co-infected patients)
Precautions:
Screen for Hepatitis B before initiating treatment
Use caution in severe renal impairment
Not recommended during pregnancy (especially with ribavirin)
Avoid use with strong P-gp or CYP inducers (e.g., rifampin, St. John's Wort)
Drug Interactions:
Amiodarone (risk of serious bradycardia)
Rifampin, carbamazepine, phenytoin (reduce effectiveness)
Antacids (may affect velpatasvir absorption — take separately)
Storage:
Store below 30°C
Keep in original container away from moisture
Effectiveness:
Cure rates (SVR12) above 95% for all HCV genotypes
Pan-genotypic, meaning no need for genotype testing in many cases
Let me know if you'd like a patient-friendly leaflet, PDF summary, or comparison with other Hep C treatments like Sofosbuvir + Daclatasvir.
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Description provided by VAISHNAVI INJECTABLES.
