Sofosvel

Uses
Sofosvel is a fixed dose combination drug used in the treatment of Chronic Hepatitis C (HCV). Sofosbuvel has very high cure rates for all genotypes of HCV infection (HCV genotype 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6). Sofosvel contains sofosbuvir (a HCV nucleotide analog NS5B polymerase inhibitor) and velpatasvir (an HCV NS5A inhibitor).

Dosage and Administration
Sofosvel tablets contain 400mg of Sofosbuir and 100mg of Velpatasvir and come in a box of 6 tablets.

Sofosvel is adminstered alone in the treatment of HCV without cirrhosis or with compensated cirrhosis (Child-Pugh A). If being used to treat HCV with decompensated cirrhosis (Child-Pugh B and C), Sofosvel and Ribavirin is prescribed.

Sofosvel is usually prescribed for a 12-week period, with one tablet a daybeing the most commonly prescribed dosage. Other factors such as renal impairment or renal disease may require a dosage adjustment.

Side effects
The most dangerous side effect of Sofosvel can occur when it is taken with amiodarone. In some cases, this can cause a slowing of the heart rate which can potentially be fatal or require use of a pacemaker. If you amiodarone at the same time as Sofosvel, tell your doctor immediately if you notice:

• fainting or near-fainting
• dizziness
• lightheadedness
• feeling unwell
• weakness
• extreme tiredness
• shortness of breath
• chest pains
• confusion
• memory problems

The most common side effects of Sofosvel are:

• headache
• tiredness

When Sofosvel is combined with ribavirin to treat Child-Pugh B and C HCV, common side effects inlcude:

• anemia
• nausea
• insomnia
• diarrhea

Precautions
Before you being treatment with Sofosvel, tell your doctor if:

• you have liver problems
• you have kidney problems
• you have any other medical condition
• you are pregnant or trying to become pregnant
• you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed
• you are taking any other medicines (particularly tenofovir disoproxil fumarate or amiodarone)