Velakast (sofosbuvir 400mg + velpatasvir 100mg) is a fixed-dose combination (FDC) drug used in patients with chronic hepatitis C viral (HCV) infection with genotype 1 to 6 in adults. With 93-99% of response against HCV cells depending on the genotype and the levels of cirrhosis, the FDC drug in a combined-action reduces the multiplication of HCV cells.
Sofosbuvir inhibits NS5B protein whereas velpatasvir inhibits NS5A protein. These proteins help in the replication process and their inhibition ensures that viral toll on the body is lessened.
Velakast (sofosbuvir + velpatasvir) is taken in a form an FDC i.e. 1 tablet (sofosbuvir + velpatasvir combination) once daily for 12 weeks. It is taken orally and the dose is not limited to the food consumption.
Suggested dosage of Velakast (sofosbuvir + velpatasvir) in patients with genotypes 1 to 6 HCV:
HCV disease type | Dosage | |
No cirrhosis and cirrhosis with a functional system | Velakast (sofosbuvir + velpatasvir) | |
Cirrhosis with an unfunctional system | Velakast (sofosbuvir + velpatasvir) plus ribavirin | |
Other properties | ||
Properties | Sofosbuvir | Velpatasvir |
Binding rate | Lower- 61% to 65% | Higher- 99% |
Absorption within the system | 30 minutes to 2 hours | 3 hours |
Half-life | 40 minutes to 27 hours | 15 hours |
Side-effects of Velakast (sofosbuvir 400mg + velpatasvir 100mg):
With their decent safety profile, the FDC combination is deemed to have more benefits over other anti-HCV combinational drugs. The side-effects are minor with headache and tiredness (Fatigue) being the most common ones whereas skin rashes and depression are the uncommon ones.
Serious side-effects: Slow heart rate (bradycardia)
Other side-effects:
Based on the disease type and individuals, the side-effects of Velakast (sofosbuvir + velpatasvir) may differ. The table below shows side-effects other than the above-mentioned common ones.
Cirrhosis with a functional system | Without cirrhosis or with compensated cirrhosis |
Low red blood cell count (Anemia) | Nausea |
Lack of sleep (Insomnia) | Physical weakness (Asthenia) |
Diarrhea | Lack of sleep (Insomnia) |
Nausea | – |
Note: These are not all possible side-effects of Velakast (sofosbuvir 400mg + velpatasvir 100mg), please ask your doctor for more information regarding the same.
Warnings associated with Velakast (sofosbuvir + velpatasvir):
Problems related to liver
- HCV patients should be checked for Hepatitis B viral infection if found velakast (sofosbuvir + velpatasvir) should be immediately stopped
- Other liver problems in association with HCV infection should be taken into consideration and accordingly, the dosage should be modified or restricted
Other issues:
- Patients should be mention if they are suffering from any sort of kidney disease or undergoing dialysis, modification of dosage is required in such cases
- Other severe medical conditions related to heart and brain
Pregnancy-related issues:
If patients are,
- Pregnant or planning to get pregnant
- Breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed
- Male and the partner want to get pregnant (Avoid intercourse without condoms for at least 6 months after the therapy)
Note: We are also exporting to countries: Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, Venezuela and Korea.
FAQs for Velakast
Velakast is prescribed by doctors for the treatment of Hepatitis C viral infection (HCV). These tablets have an effective combination of drugs that help to fight against the virus.
Velakast consists of a combination of two powerful drugs called Sofosbuvir and Velpatasvir. Each tablet consists of 400mg of Sofosbuvir and 100mg of Velpatasvir.
The common side effects of taking Velakast are:
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Weight loss
- Diarrhea
- Skin rashes
- Irritability
All these are very common side effects and can be cured easily. Always inform your doctor about the severe side effects.
The patient should continue taking the tablets as prescribed by the doctor. However, if the patient is diagnosed with Hepatitis B viral infection or any other disease, the doctor will modify or cancel the dosage accordingly.
The serious side effects of taking Velakast are
- Slowing down of heart rate
- Lack of sleep
Seek medical aid at the earliest to avoid other health issues.
This medicine should be taken orally with food or as prescribed by the doctor. Do not chew or crush the medicine. Swallow with water and follow the dosage regularly for an effective treatment.
If you miss a dose, leave it and ensure to take the next dose on time. Do not take the missed dose at irregular timings as this might result in an overdose.
Velakast kills the enzymes and prevents the virus from spreading to the other parts of the body. These tablets also help in the better functioning of the liver.
The other name for Velakast is Epclusa. This is also an international brand name for Velakast tablets.
Dosage of Velakast tablets can be prescribed by the doctor alone based on your condition. The most common dosage of these tablets is once every day for up to 12 weeks. However, it is unsafe to consume these tablets without a doctor’s prescription or advice.
This medicine can be stored in a container away from sunlight and moisture. It is important to store these medicines at a temperature that is below 30 degrees Celsius, away from the reach of children and pets.
Yes, it is important to take the test for the HBV virus even before consuming these medicines. If the patient tests positive, then the doctor’s will either restrict the dosage of these tablets or modify it based on the health of the patient.
No, currently, there is no effective antidote available to reduce the effects of an overdose. Therefore, consult the doctor immediately for diagnosis and treatment.
While taking the treatment, avoid indulging in unsafe sexual activities. It is also not recommended to share needles, syringes, and other medical types of equipment with others. Schedule frequent visits to a healthcare center for monitoring your health condition.
Routine activities can be continued but make sure you do not stress yourself by doing a lot of work. Specifically, avoid driving as these tablets can impact the brain, and therefore it is not safe to go driving.
No, it is not safe to consume these tablets if the patient is suffering from kidney disease. Inform your doctor for further guidance and medical support.
Yes, these tablets contribute to the better functioning of the liver. But, if the patient is already suffering from liver diseases, then the liver’s health should be monitored, and the doctor will change the dosage of these medicines accordingly.
Yes, it is safe to consume these tablets during pregnancy if prescribed by your doctor.
No, consumption of alcohol while taking the treatment might result in severe health issues. Therefore, avoid consuming alcohol with Velakast tablets and eat healthily.
Some precautions to be taken are:
- Make sure to take plenty of rest and eat nutritious food.
- Inform your doctor about your previous medical history
- Inform your doctor about certain allergies and other common side effects.
- Avoid driving and consumption of alcohol.
- Avoid indulging in sexual activities.
Yes, there is a series of medical tests to be taken before starting the dosage. Consult your doctor and follow the advice given.
This depends on the type of drugs to be consumed. It is better to consult your doctor and discuss the other drugs that are important for consumption. Your doctor might suggest an alternative if certain drugs are unsafe.
No, these tablets do not have a long-term effect. If taken as prescribed, these tablets can fight against HCV infection and help improve your health condition.
If the dosage is not followed as prescribed, serious health issues might occur, and the treatment will fail. Therefore, it is important to take these tablets and follow your doctor’s advice to get a cure.
These tablets are generally prescribed for a period of 12 weeks to 24 weeks. But, it is important to consult a doctor and keep following the prescription to get effective results.
Kelly Grim –
For the treatment of hepatitis C, this is an excellent medicine. I’m taking it for two months. My health has improved significantly.
Scott Brecker –
Really good medicine for the treatment of hepatitis C.
Walid Hamza –
It is a only medicine work for me. After taking it, I’ve noticed a significant improvement.
Beth Maxwell –
Velakast was recommended by my doctor for the treatment of hepatitis C. Thank you, Gandhi Medicos, for getting it to me on time.
Vlaicu Aurel –
Very effective medicine for Hepatitis C without any side effect.