Epclusa is a prescription medication used for treatment of chronic hepatitis C (Hep C) genotypes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 infections (different types of a virus are differentiated by its genetic materials, which are called genotypes). Epclusa (sofosbuvir 400mg/velpatasvir 100 mg) was approved by the FDA for Hep C treatment of adults in 2016. Recently, in March 2020, a new dosage strength of Epclusa (sofosbuvir 200mg/veltapasvir 50mg) was approved to treat Hep C of children ages 6 and older or weighing at least 37.4 lb (17 kg) with genotypes 1 – 6. Epclusa provides high cure rate after 12 weeks treatment.
Who should not take Epclusa?
Do not take Epclusa if you have liver impairment, Hepatitis B infection, or are currently taking amiodarone.
How do you take Epclusa?
For adults, take 1 tablet (Epclusa 400mg/100mg) by mouth once daily.
For children ages 6 and older and weighing at least 37.4 lb (17kg), the daily dose will be based on weight, particularly:
- If the child’s weight is at 66 lb (30 kg) or greater, he/she will take 1 tablet (Epclusa 400mg/100mg) or 2 tablets (Epclusa 200mg/50mg) once daily.
- If the child’s weight is at least 37.4 lb (17kg) but less than 66 lb (30 kg), he/she will take 1 tablet (Epclusa 200mg/50mg) once daily.
Epclusa can be taken with or without food. It is important to take the drug every day as prescribed.
What are the most common side effects?
The most common side effects of Epclusa are headache and tiredness.
How much does this medication cost?
Epclusa offers a savings card that can help you pay as little as $5 per copay. To find out if you are eligible, please click here.
Is there support offered throughout the hepatitis C treatment with Epclusa?
Yes! We, Sunray Specialty Pharmacy, are willing to help and support you throughout the entire process. We provide reminder call services to aid you in taking medication on time. We work with your prescribers to ensure all of your issues relating to the treatment are resolved.
The Epclusa website also provides you Hep C Specialists whose offices can be found near you based on your zip code. https://www.epclusa.com/
Is Epclusa right for me or my child?
Talk to your doctor to find out if Epclusa is a good option for you or your child to treat hepatitis C infection.
If you have any additional questions, feel free to give us a call or send us an email here: Contact Us. We will get back to you shortly.
Written by:
Hoa Nguyen
PharmD Candidate 2021
Temple University School of Pharmacy
References:
Epclusa [package insert]. Foster City, CA: Gilead; 2020.
EPCLUSA® (sofosbuvir 400 mg/velpatasvir 100 mg) tablets | Patient. https://www.epclusa.com/. Accessed August 21, 2020.
U.S. Food And Drug Administration approves Epclusa® (Sofosbuvir/Velpatasvir) for children ages 6 and older or weighing at least 17kg with chronic hepatitis C infection. https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200319005700/en/U.S.-Food-Drug-Administration-Approves-Epclusa%C2%AE-SofosbuvirVelpatasvir. Accessed August 21, 2020.