Velpanat (Sofosbuvir + Velpatasvir Tablet) 400mg + 100mg

Velpanat is used to manage chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. It is effective across multiple genotypes and can be used in patients with or without compensated cirrhosis. The tablet is taken orally once daily with or without food.

• Chronic HCV infection: Treats the infection by eliminating the virus from the body.
• Managing HCV across multiple genotypes: Effective against various strains of the hepatitis C virus.
• Treatment of chronic HCV infection: Used to manage the infection in adults and older children.
• Managing hepatitis C with compensated cirrhosis: Helps in managing the infection in patients with compensated cirrhosis.
• Treatment of hepatitis C without cirrhosis: Used to treat the infection in patients without cirrhosis.

• Velpanat works by targeting different parts of the hepatitis C virus. Sofosbuvir, a nucleotide analogue, inhibits the NS5B RNA-dependent RNA polymerase, an enzyme essential for viral replication. Velpatasvir targets the NS5A protein, disrupting both viral RNA replication and the assembly of new virus particles, effectively preventing the virus from spreading in the body.

Velpanat may cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Common side effects include fatigue, diarrhea, insomnia, and back pain. These are usually mild and go away on their own. Serious or rare side effects are less common but can be more severe.

Common Side Effects

• Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or weak.
• Diarrhea: Frequent, loose, or watery bowel movements.
• Insomnia: Difficulty falling or staying asleep.
• Back pain: Discomfort or pain in the back.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Allergic reactions: Symptoms may include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
• Liver problems: Signs may include persistent nausea, vomiting, or yellowing of the skin and eyes.
• Severe fatigue: Extreme tiredness that does not improve with rest.

Before taking Velpanat, inform your doctor about any pre-existing conditions you have and about any other medicines you are currently taking. It is important to follow the prescribed dosage and duration. Do not crush, break, or chew the tablet. Swallow it whole with a glass of water.

• Inform your doctor: Tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
• Avoid alcohol: Consuming alcohol with this medicine can be harmful, so it is advised to limit or avoid alcohol.
• Complete the course: It is important to complete the course of the medicine for better results.
• Inform your doctor: Notify your doctor promptly if you experience any side effects during treatment.
• Store below 30°C: Keep the medicine in the original pack, protect from moisture, and store below 30°C.

Velpanat may interact with other medications, which can affect how it works or increase the risk of side effects. It is important to inform your doctor about all the medications you are taking to avoid potential interactions.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Rifampin: Can reduce the effectiveness of Velpanat.
• Carbamazepine: May decrease the concentration of Velpanat in the blood.
• St. John's Wort: Can reduce the effectiveness of Velpanat.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Antacids: May affect the absorption of Velpanat.
• HIV medications: Some HIV medications may interact with Velpanat.
• Other antiviral medications: May require dose adjustments or monitoring.