Can sofosbuvir and velpatasvir (Epclusa) cure hepatitis C?

Sofosbuvir and velpatasvir block two proteins necessary for the reproduction of the hepatitis C virus. Sofosbuvir blocks the action of an enzyme called NS5B, while velpatasvir targets a protein called NS5A. By blocking these proteins, the combination of fosbuvir and velpatasvir prevented the hepatitis C virus from multiplying and infecting new cells.

One study involved 1,446 patients infected with hepatitis C (genotypes 1 to 6) with normal liver function, some of whom had compensated liver disease (liver damage but normal function). In all three studies, the main measure of effectiveness was the number of patients whose blood tests showed no signs of the hepatitis C virus 12 weeks after treatment ended. Based on the study results, 98% of patients who took the combination of fosbuvir and velpatasvir for 12 weeks tested negative for the virus 12 weeks after the end of treatment. And cured disease means that the patient has no detectable hepatitis C virus in the blood when measured 3 months after completion of treatment.

The original drug of sofosbuvir and velpatasvir has been launched in China and has entered the scope of Class B medical insurance. The domestic trade name is protonsa, and the specification (400mg+100mg)*28 tablets is priced at about 4,000 yuan per box. The original drug of sofosbuvir and velpatasvir has also been launched overseas. There are also generic drugs of sofosbuvir and velpatasvir produced in other countries. The price of the specification (400mg + 100mg) * 28 tablets produced by Everest Pharmaceutical Factory in Bangladesh is about 850 yuan per box (the price may fluctuate due to the exchange rate). The generic drugs produced abroad are basically the same as the original drugs at home and abroad.