Sovaldi

Sovaldi (Sofosbuvir) is used for treating chronic hepatitis C. It is classified as a nucleotide analog polymerase inhibitor and its mode of action is preventing the virus from spreading by inhibiting the synthesis of RNA. It has been hailed as a breakthrough in the treatment of Hep C due to reports of patients being cured after treatment. In a recent medical study, 89 per cent of patients affected by hepatitis C genotype 1 (the most commonly occurring form of the virus) were successfully cured when given this medicine in combination with ribivarin and peginterferon alfa.

This medicine inhibits the hepatitis C virus (HCV) nucleotide analog NS5B polymerase, which is the name given to the enzyme required by the virus to replicate itself and spread throughout the body. When taken by mouth, it is quickly converted into the active metabolite, allowing it to target the virus. Following this, it acts in the liver and binds to the viral RNA, which prevents the virus from copying itself and infecting other liver cells. Because of this, the hep C virus cells are no longer able to multiply in the body. This helps to bring the infection under control and the subsequent reduction in HCV inside the body may stop further damage to the liver.

It is generally used in combination with other antiviral drugs to boost the immune system`s ability to fight off the infection. Some patients may also be cured of their condition. Patients affected by all 4 genotypes of the virus (1,2, 3 and 4) can be treated with this medicine. It has also been given to patients who are waiting to undergo a liver transplant, to prevent the recurrence of HCV, or to treat patients who are infected with both HCV and HIV-1. It is not used to treat an infection caused by HIV, however.

Sovaldi (Sofosbuvir) comes in the form of 400mg tablets. Daily dosage and the length of treatment must be individualized, and will be decided upon by the physician in charge of treatment. Physicians generally direct patients to take one tablet (400mg) per day either with or without food. Adults affected by HCV genotype 1 or 4 are sometimes told to take it for 12 weeks, alongside ribavirin and peg-interferon alfa (the required dosage for other medicines will be calculated by the physician).

Genotype 2 is normally treated along with ribavirin, and physicians usually tell the patient to continue treatment for a 12 week period. Hepatitis C genotype 3 is also treated in combination with ribavirin, however physicians normally advise the patient to use it for 24 weeks. It is important to note that the exact dosage could differ based on each patient`s individual circumstances, and that it is essential that all instructions given by the physician in charge of treatment be strictly followed. Close medical supervision will also be required for the entire duration of treatment, and after treatment has finished.

If you notice any side effects during treatment with Sovaldi (Sofosbuvir), tell your physician. Examples include:

• Pruritis
• Insomnia
• Tiredness
• Muscular soreness
• Appetite reduction

Consult your physician or go to the hospital straight away if you notice strange behavior, a pale appearance, gum inflammation, sores which affect the mouth or skin, fever or any other severe adverse events not referenced in this paragraph.

Treatment with Sovaldi (Sofosbuvir) could lead to birth defects. Pregnant women must not take it. Also, men should not father children while undergoing treatment, as this could also harm the unborn baby.

Treatment with this medicine may not prevent viral transmission to those around you. Avoid unprotected sex or sharing of toothbrushes, razors or anything else that could infect others.