Sofosbuvir
Sofosbuvir, the antiviral behind Harvoni and Epclusa, appears in two combination tablets on this shelf: Velpanat (with velpatasvir) and Hepcinat Lp (with ledipasvir). Both treat Chronic Hepatitis C.
Hepcinat Lp
Chronic Hepatitis C
90mg + 400mg
Ledipasvir and sofosbuvir tablets for chronic hepatitis C. One of the newer direct-acting antiviral combinations, taken as a course to clear the virus.
Key points
- Sofosbuvir is an Antivirals agent that blocks the NS5B RNA-dependent RNA polymerase, the enzyme hepatitis C needs to replicate.
- All sofosbuvir-containing products carry a boxed warning for hepatitis B reactivation in coinfected patients.
- Do not take two sofosbuvir-containing products at the same time.
Common questions about Sofosbuvir
What separates Velpanat from Hepcinat Lp?
Both deliver 400 mg of sofosbuvir per tablet, but the partner drug differs. Velpanat combines it with 100 mg velpatasvir and is made by Natco Pharma. Hepcinat Lp combines it with 90 mg ledipasvir. Each is a distinct fixed-dose combination, not a generic version of the other.
Why does the label warn about amiodarone?
Sofosbuvir-containing regimens can cause serious, sometimes fatal, bradycardia when taken with amiodarone. Cases appeared within hours to days, though some occurred up to two weeks later. A fatal cardiac arrest was reported with ledipasvir/sofosbuvir and amiodarone together. Anyone on amiodarone who notices a slow heartbeat or dizziness should seek urgent medical attention.