Velpanat Tablet

Velpanat Tablet is a prescription medication used for the treatment of chronic Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. It contains a combination of Sofosbuvir (400 mg) and Velpatasvir (100 mg), which are direct-acting antiviral agents that help eliminate the Hepatitis C virus from the body.

Active Ingredients

• Sofosbuvir (400 mg) – Inhibits viral replication by targeting the HCV RNA polymerase enzyme.
• Velpatasvir (100 mg) – Blocks the action of proteins required for the virus to grow and spread.

Indications

• Treatment of chronic Hepatitis C infection (all six major genotypes 1-6).
• Effective in patients with or without liver cirrhosis.
• Can be used in HIV/HCV co-infected patients under medical supervision.

Key Benefits

• High cure rate (over 95% when used as prescribed).
• Single-tablet regimen for convenient daily use.
• Effective for all HCV genotypes, eliminating the need for genotype testing in most cases.
• Minimal side effects compared to older Hepatitis C treatments.

Dosage & Administration

• Usual dose: One tablet once daily with or without food.
• Treatment duration: Typically, 12 weeks but may vary based on medical condition.
• Do not miss doses, as consistency is crucial for successful treatment.

Precautions

• Not for use in pregnancy – Women of childbearing age should use effective contraception.
• Avoid in severe kidney or liver disease unless prescribed by a doctor.
• Do not take with certain medications like rifampin, carbamazepine, or St. John’s wort, as they may reduce effectiveness.
• Patients with cirrhosis or prior Hepatitis B infection should be monitored carefully.
• Alcohol should be avoided during treatment.

Possible Side Effects

Common Side Effects:

• Fatigue
• Headache
• Nausea
• Insomnia

Rare but Serious Side Effects:

• Severe allergic reactions (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing)
• Bradycardia (slow heart rate) if taken with amiodarone
• Liver function changes (uncommon but possible)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How effective is Velpanat for Hepatitis C?
Velpanat has a cure rate of over 95% when taken correctly for the prescribed duration.

2. Can I stop taking Velpanat once I feel better?
No, complete the full course as prescribed, even if symptoms improve. Stopping early may lead to resistance and treatment failure.

3. Is Velpanat safe for patients with HIV?
Yes, but it must be taken under the supervision of a doctor due to potential drug interactions with HIV medications.

4. Can I drink alcohol while on Velpanat?
No, alcohol can worsen liver damage and reduce treatment effectiveness.

5. How long does it take for Velpanat to cure Hepatitis C?
Most patients test negative for HCV within 12 weeks of treatment. However, a follow-up test is needed to confirm cure.