Sofovir

Sofovir 400 mg (Sofosbuvir) Uses and Side Effects

Sofovir 400 mg (Sofosbuvir) is a hepatitis C viral (HCV) infection medicine recommended specifically for HCV genotype 1,2,3 or 4. Sofovir 400 mg (Sofosbuvir) belongs to the class of ant-viral agents which acts by suppressing the reproduction of the viral cells.

Along with anti-HCV properties, Sofovir 400 mg (Sofosbuvir) is also used in liver cancer patients awaiting transplantation and ones with HIV co-infection. It is also capable of reducing the recurrence of HCV infection after the transplantation.

In terms of dosage, Sofosbuvir 400 mg (Sofosbuvir) is taken orally in the form of a 400 mg tablet once daily. The dose can be taken irrespective of food. The drug is administered along with ribavirin mostly, but in some scenarios, peginterferon is also used along with ribavirin for specific populations.

Recommended dosage of Sofovir 400 mg (Sofosbuvir) in HCV patients:

Modifications of dosage:

Sofovir 400 mg (Sofosbuvir) dosage modification is not recommended. However, if patients witness any side-effects due to peginterferon alfa and/or ribavirin, it is vital to reduce them specifically in severe cases. In severe cases where the other agents are permanently discontinued, in that case, even Sofosbuvir 400 mg (Sofosbuvir) should be withdrawn too.

Warnings associated with bradycardia when co-administered with amiodarone

If patients are seen with symptoms like fainting, dizziness, weakness, shortness of breath, chest pain or confusion, immediately consult your doctor for the occurrence of bradycardia (increased heartbeats).

Side-effects of Sofovir 400 mg (Sofosbuvir):

Sofosbuvir 400 mg (Sofosbuvir) is one of the safest option among anti-HCV agents due to the occurrence of minimal side-effects.  Tiredness (Fatigue) and headache are the most common side-effects of Sofosbuvir 400 mg (Sofosbuvir) when used in combination with ribavirin. However, when it is used in combination with peginterferon alfa and ribavirin, nausea, difficulty in sleeping (insomnia) and low count of red blood cells (anemia) gets added.

Note: Tell your doctor if you see any other side-effects as these may not be all side-effects associated with Sofosbuvir 400 mg (Sofosbuvir).

Precautions Before taking Sofovir 400 mg (Sofosbuvir):

• The patients should inform about other liver complications if any
• If patients have had a liver transplant, tell your doctor regarding the surgery
• They should not hesitate to disclose about HIV infection
• Patients should also mention if they are suffering from any sort of kidney disease or undergoing dialysis therapy
• They should discuss their pregnancy plans. If they are pregnant, then plans regarding the breastfeeding