sofosbuvirledipasvir

Sofosbuvirledipasvir is a fixed-dose antiviral medication used to treat chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. It combines sofosbuvir, a nucleotide analog inhibitor of the HCV RNA-dependent RNA polymerase NS5B, with ledipasvir, an inhibitor of the NS5A protein. By blocking distinct steps in the viral replication cycle, the two drugs work together to suppress hepatitis C virus activity. The combination is commonly marketed as Harvoni and is available in several generic forms in different regions.

Indications and regimen: The medicine is used to treat chronic HCV infection in adults, with regimens tailored to genotype and liver disease status. It is active against several genotypes, most notably genotype 1, and may be used in patients with compensated cirrhosis or no cirrhosis. Typical courses are around 12 weeks, though shorter durations (for example 8 weeks) may be considered for select treatment-naive patients without cirrhosis according to guidelines.

Administration and safety: The tablets are taken orally once daily, with or without food. Safety considerations include potential drug interactions; strong inducers such as rifampin and St. John’s wort can reduce drug levels and are avoided. Absorption of ledipasvir can be affected by acid-reducing agents, so instruction on timing with antacids may be given. Common adverse effects include fatigue and headache; less frequent events include nausea. It is not recommended for patients with decompensated cirrhosis. In rare cases, serious hepatic or cardiac events have been reported, particularly with certain concurrent medications such as amiodarone.

Monitoring and outcomes: Efficacy is monitored by measuring hepatitis C RNA, and achieving a sustained virologic response (SVR) is the desired outcome of therapy.