Today, there are so many FDA-approved medications used in the treatment of hepatitis C. Doctors determine the appropriate medication or a combination of medications for each patient as well as how long they need to remain in treatment by taking into account a group of factors such as:
– Patient’s hepatitis C genotype
– Whether a patient has liver scarring (cirrhosis) or its severity
– Patient’s prior treatment protocol
– Whether a patient has had a liver transplantation or awaiting for one
– Patient’s pre-existing medical conditions
Hep C treatments using antiviral medications typically last between 12 to 24 weeks, which varies according to a patient’s specific case. Treatment plans are classified based on hepatitis C genotype. Nearly 80% of individuals with hepatitis C have genotype 1 in the United States while about 10-20% of those with the infection have the genotype 2 or 3.
Hepatitis C Genotype 1 Treatment Options
Scientists have been developing new medications for the treatment of hepatitis C genotype 1 since the early 2010s. Currently, there are several medications that can be used to treat genotype 1, and your doctor determines the right fit depending on your particular circumstances. Some of the most common options are:
Daklinza (daclatasvir)
It is taken in conjunction with Sovaldi () or sometimes used along with ribavirin. The standard dosage is 60 mg of daclatasvir with 400 mg of daily. Treating hepatitis C with daclatasvir usually takes about 12 weeks. This medication can cause headaches and fatigue.
Epclusa (/velpatasvir)
Epclusa is used in conjunction with ribavirin in patients with advanced liver scarring. The standard dosage 400 mg of with 100 mg of velpatasvir once every day. The treatment typically lasts 12 weeks. The medication can cause side effects such as fatigue and headaches. When taken in combination with ribavirin, it may additionally cause trouble sleeping, anemia, and nausea.
(ledipasvir/)
is sometimes prescribed along with ribavirin similar to Epclusa. The standard dosage is one capsule a day which is comprised of 90 mg of ledipasvir and 400 mg of . Similar to its counterparts, may cause headaches and fatigue, and if taken in combination with ribavirin, it may also cause faintness and coughing.
Zepatier (elbasvir/grazoprevir)
Zepatier may also be prescribed in conjunction with ribavirin. The standard dose is one capsule a day which is comprised of 50 mg of elbasvir and 100 mg of grazoprevir. In most cases, Zepatier is used for 12 weeks but some patients may need to use it for up to 16 weeks. This medication may also cause headaches, lethargy, and nausea. If taken along with ribavirin, it may also cause breathlessness, rashes, and anemia.
Olysio (simeprevir)
Olysio is typically taken with , but ribavirin may also be added to the mix. The standard dose is a 150-mg tablet taken once daily with food along with a 400-mg tablet of . The side effects of simeprevir taken with in the course of 12 weeks include headaches, lethargy, rashes, light sensitivity, and nausea. If used for up to 24, the combination treatment may also cause diarrhea and faintness.
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Posted on May 5, 2023