| Brand Name: |
Hepcvir |
| Generic Name: |
Sofosbuvir |
| Form: |
Tablets |
| Manufacturer: |
Cipla |
What is Hepcvir?
Hepcvir contains Sofosbuvir, a generic brand of anti-viral medication used to treat Hepatitus C virus. Hepcvir is manufactured by Cipla. Sofosbuvir helps the immune system and the liver to recover from Hepatitis C infection.
Hepcvir (Sofosbuvir) is most commonly prescribed for the treatment of Hepatitis C in adults. It is used with other medications in combination. These other medications are usually ribavirin and pegylated interferon. Sufosbuvir is able to treat genotypes 1, 2, 3, and 4 of Hepatitis C.
How is Hepcvir used?
Hepcvir (Sofosbuvir) should be taken for a period of 12 weeks unless otherwise instructed by your doctor. The other medications being taken along with sufosbuvir should be taken for the same length of time. It is better to take the medicines at the same time, and to do so at the same time each day. You can take Hepcvir in the morning (to reduce insomnia) and to take it with food (to reduce nausea).
Your weight and the genotype of Hepatitus C Virus that has been contracted will be important factors in determining your dosage. Only take the dossage that has been prescribed by your doctor. Commonly, a starting dose of 400 mg per day is prescribed. This may be increased to 600 mg per day depending on how the treatment is progressing. Do not adjust the dosage up or down by yourself. Your doctor will advise you if you need to adjust your dosage based on testing.
Adverse effects
Hepcvir (Sofosbuvir) is generally well tolerated by most people. You may experience some nausea and insomnia, especially when you first start taking sufosbuvir. You can reduce the sevcerity of these side effects by taking Hepcvir with food and taking your dose in the morning.
Sofosbuvir may also reduce your red blood cell count. Scheduling of regular blood tests can ensure that these levels remain within safe limits.
Liver function can be affected by taking Hepcvir (Sofosbuvir). Any patients with a history of pre-existing liver problems should not use this Sofosbuvir. Liver function tests should be taken on a regular basis while treating Hepatitus C with Sofosbuvir.
If Sofosbuvir causes severe diarrhea, shortness of breath or heart rate changes, let your doctor know immediately.
Warnings
Any prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, herbal treatments or nutritional supplements you tare taking should be discussed with your doctor. St John's Wort, along with some other medicines, may have a negative interaction with Hepcvir (Sofosbuvir).
Hepcvir (Sofosbuvir) should not be taken alone. It should be taken as part of an overall treatment plan usually also containing ribavirin and pegylated interferon. Your doctor will advise you further before beginning treatment with Sofosbuvir.
Do not take Sofosbuvir if you are pregnant or trying to become pregnant. Sofosbuvir can result in birth defects, damage to the fetus, or early termination of pregnancy. It is recommended to use mulitple forms of contraception to prevent pregnancy while taking this medication and for 6 months after treatment ends, as it is vital you do not become pregnant while you or your partner are taking sufosbuvir.
Sofosbuvir can cause sever diarrhea in some cases. In you experience this, be sure to maintain your fluid intake to sufficient levels to prevent dehydration. |
