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What is Harvoni tablet?
Harvoni Tablet is a prescription medication that combines Ledipasvir (90mg) and Sofosbuvir (400mg) to treat chronic Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Manufactured by Gilead Sciences, this direct-acting antiviral medication belongs to a class of drugs that includes NS5A inhibitors and nucleotide analog NS5B polymerase inhibitors.
Harvoni Tablet provides a powerful treatment option for HCV patients. It is a highly effective single-tablet regimen.
Uses of Harvoni tablet
Harvoni tablets are primarily prescribed for treating chronic Hepatitis C virus infection in adults and children aged 3 years and older. They are effective, particularly against HCV genotype 1, the most common type in the United States. However, they are effective against numerous genotypes.
The medication can be used alone or in combination with Ribavirin, depending on the individual’s specific condition, liver status, and previous treatment history.
Working and benefits of Ledipasvir and Sofosbuvir
Harvoni works through a dual-action mechanism with the Sofosbuvir and Ledipasvir combination. Ledipasvir acts as an NS5A inhibitor, blocking a protein the virus needs to replicate, while Sofosbuvir functions as a nucleotide analog NS5B polymerase inhibitor, preventing viral RNA synthesis.
The combination offers several key benefits:
- High cure rates of 96-99% in clinical trials.
- Single-tablet regimen improving treatment compliance.
- Shorter treatment duration compared to traditional therapies.
- Reduced side effects compared to interferon-based treatments.
- Effective against multiple HCV genotypes (1, 4, 5, 6)
The medication shows viral load reduction within the first few weeks of treatment, though complete viral clearance usually requires a full course of Hepatitis C antiviral therapy.
Dosage and how to take Harvoni tablet
Always follow your healthcare provider's specific instructions for your treatment plan. Here are the general guidelines:
- Take one Harvoni tablet (Ledipasvir 90mg + Sofosbuvir 400mg) once daily.
- Take the tablet whole; do not crush, break, or chew it.
- It can be taken with or without food.
The treatment duration varies based on your condition:
- 8 weeks for treatment-naive individuals (did not receive any treatment) without cirrhosis
- 12 weeks for patients with compensated cirrhosis (a disease in which the liver is damaged but performs basic functions).
- 24 weeks for specific patient populations.
Side effects
Common Harvoni side effects may include:
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Nausea
- Insomnia
- Diarrhea
- Mild rash
Most side effects are mild and temporary. Contact a healthcare provider if you experience persistent or severe symptoms.
Interactions
Harvoni tablets may interact with certain foods, medicines, and diseases.
Drug Interactions
- Amiodarone (risk of severe heart problems)
- Rosuvastatin
- P-glycoprotein inducers
- HIV antiretroviral medications
- Acid-reducing agents
Disease Interactions
Particular attention is needed for people with:
- Advanced liver disease: It can lead to severe complications and requires careful monitoring due to the risk of liver failure.
- Hepatitis B coinfection: People with a history of Hepatitis B may experience reactivation of the virus during or after Harvoni treatment.
- Kidney disease: The safety of Harvoni in patients with severe kidney issues, including those on dialysis, is uncertain. Careful evaluation by a doctor is essential.
- Heart conditions: Harvoni can potentially slow heart rate and may lead to serious complications when taken alongside certain heart medications, necessitating close monitoring.
Food Interactions
There are no known significant food interactions. However, you should avoid St. John's Wort supplements and antacids with Harvoni.
Precautions
Adhere to the following precautions before or during Harvoni treatment:
- Tell your doctor if you have hepatitis B, as Harvoni can reactivate the virus.
- Regular liver function monitoring is required during treatment.
- Inform healthcare providers about pregnancy or breastfeeding plans.
- It is not recommended for patients with severe kidney disease.
- Avoid starting new medications without consulting your doctor.
- Regular check-ups are necessary to monitor treatment progress.
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FAQs
How long is the treatment for Harvoni?
Harvoni treatment lasts 8-24 weeks. It may be given alone or in combination with other medicines. The severity of chronic infection and other factors can determine the treatment duration.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Harvoni?
No, alcohol consumption is not recommended during Harvoni treatment as it can strain your liver, cause side effects, and potentially reduce the medication's effectiveness. It's best to avoid alcohol completely during the treatment period.
Is Harvoni used to treat all types of Hepatitis?
No, Harvoni is specifically designed to treat chronic hepatitis C virus infection. It is not effective against other types of viral hepatitis, like hepatitis A, B, or E. Consult a doctor before use to ensure accurate treatment.
What if I miss a dose of Harvoni?
If you miss a dose and it's still the same day, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's already the next day, leave the missed one and continue with the regular dosage schedule. Never double dose to make up for a missed one.
How should I store Harvoni tablets?
Store Harvoni tablets at room temperature (20-25°C) in their original container. Keep the medicine away from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight, and ensure it's out of reach of children.
Is it safe to take Harvoni during pregnancy?
Limited data about Harvoni's safety during pregnancy is available. Discuss with your healthcare provider about the potential benefits and risks if you are pregnant or planning to conceive while on Harvoni treatment.