Elbasvir

Elbasvir is a medication used in combination with other drugs to treat chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. It is an NS5A inhibitor, a class of direct-acting antiviral agents that target a protein essential for HCV replication. Elbasvir is typically prescribed as part of a fixed-dose combination pill with grazoprevir, another direct-acting antiviral. This combination therapy is effective against certain genotypes of the hepatitis C virus, including genotype 1 and genotype 4.

The mechanism of action for elbasvir involves binding to the NS5A protein of the hepatitis C virus. This protein plays a critical role in various stages of the viral life cycle, including viral RNA replication and assembly. By inhibiting NS5A, elbasvir disrupts these processes, thereby preventing the virus from multiplying. When combined with grazoprevir, which inhibits the NS3/4A protease, the dual action of the combination therapy leads to a high rate of viral cure.

Elbasvir, in its combination with grazoprevir, is administered orally and is typically taken once daily. The duration of treatment varies depending on the specific HCV genotype, prior treatment history, and the presence of cirrhosis, but commonly ranges from 8 to 12 weeks. The efficacy of elbasvir-based regimens is generally high, achieving sustained virologic response (SVR), which is considered a cure for hepatitis C. Common side effects may include fatigue and headache. It is important to note that elbasvir is only available by prescription and should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.