Velpanat Tablet

### Velpanat Tablet **PRODUCT DESCRIPTION:** Velpanat is an oral antiviral medication formulated to treat chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. It combines two active ingredients, **ledipasvir** and **sofosbuvir**, both of which are direct-acting antiviral agents effective against hepatitis C. This combination enhances the effectiveness of treatment while simplifying the dosing regimen. **ACTIVE INGREDIENTS:** 1. **Ledipasvir (90 mg)**: – Ledipasvir is an NS5A inhibitor that blocks a protein essential for the hepatitis C virus’s replication and assembly. This action helps prevent the virus from multiplying and spreading. 2. **Sofosbuvir (400 mg)**: – Sofosbuvir is an nucleotide analog polymerase inhibitor that interferes with the viral RNA synthesis. It acts on the virus directly, inhibiting its ability to reproduce. **INDICATIONS:** Velpanat is indicated for: – The treatment of chronic hepatitis C (genotype 1, 4, 5, and 6) in adults. – It is typically used in patients without cirrhosis or with compensated cirrhosis (Child-Pugh A). **DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION:** – **Dosage**: The standard dosage of Velpanat is one tablet taken once daily, with or without food. It is important to adhere to the prescribed dosage and duration set by a healthcare provider. – **Duration of Treatment**: Treatment duration generally ranges from 12 to 24 weeks, depending on the specific circumstances of the patient, including the genotype of the virus and prior treatment history. **SIDE EFFECTS:** Velpanat is generally well tolerated, but some common side effects may include: – Fatigue – Headache – Nausea – Diarrhea – Insomnia – Possible elevations in liver enzymes Severe side effects are rare, but patients should be vigilant for signs of allergic reactions or severe liver issues. Consult a healthcare provider immediately if any severe or unusual symptoms occur. **IMPORTANT NOTES:** – **Drug Interactions**: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking, as certain drug interactions can affect how Velpanat works or increase the risk of adverse effects. For example, ledipasvir can interact with drugs that affect liver enzymes. – **Monitoring**: Regular follow-up visits with a healthcare provider for monitoring of liver function tests and HCV RNA levels are recommended during treatment. – **Not for Co-infection**: Velpanat is not indicated for the treatment of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, and screening for HBV is recommended before starting treatment. **RECOMMENDATIONS:** – **Adherence to Treatment**: It’s crucial for patients to take the medication exactly as prescribed. Missing doses can reduce the effectiveness of the treatment and lead to treatment failure or resistance. – **Lifestyle Modifications**: Patients should maintain a healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition, hydration, and avoiding alcohol, as these factors can influence treatment success. – **Consult Healthcare Provider**: Before starting Velpanat, discuss any health conditions or concerns with your healthcare provider to ensure that the treatment plan is tailored to your needs. In summary, Velpanat combines ledipasvir and sofosbuvir to provide an effective treatment option for chronic hepatitis C. Proper adherence to the treatment regimen and regular monitoring can enhance the chances of achieving a sustained virologic response. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance regarding treatment.