What is sofosbuvir and velpatasvir (Epclusa)?

Sofosbuvir (Epclusa) is a fixed-dose combination of sofosbuvir (sofosbuvir) and velpatasvir (velpatasvir), which are direct-acting antivirals against the hepatitis C virus sold under the trade name Epclusa. It is more than 90% effective against hepatitis C genotypes one through six. It is also effective against hepatitis C in patients with cirrhosis or HIV/AIDS. Sofosbuvir and velpatasvir are generally administered orally.

The combination of sofosbuvir and velpatasvir is generally well tolerated. Common side effects include headache, fatigue, insomnia, and nausea. The combination has not been studied in pregnant women or breastfeeding. If used with ribavirin, the combination is contraindicated in pregnant women and men whose female partners are pregnant. For patients who are also infected with hepatitis B, more attention needs to be paid. Sofosbuvir works by blocking the NS5B protein, while velpatasvir works by blocking the NS5A protein.

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 is (400mg+100mg) * 28 tablets. The price per box is about RMB 4,000. 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 specifications of the Bangladesh Everest Pharmaceutical Factory are (400mg + 100mg) * 28 tablets per box, and the price is around RMB 850 (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.