Sofosbuvir Velpatasvir Tablets Velasof

Q1: What is Velasof (Sofosbuvir/Velpatasvir) used for?

Velasof is a pan-genotypic direct-acting antiviral (DAA) combination of Sofosbuvir 400mg + Velpatasvir 100mg for treating chronic hepatitis C (all genotypes 1–6) in both HCV-monoinfected and HIV/HCV co-infected patients. It achieves cure rates of 95%+.

Q2: How do Sofosbuvir and Velpatasvir work to cure hepatitis C?

Sofosbuvir is an NS5B RNA polymerase inhibitor — blocking HCV RNA replication. Velpatasvir is an NS5A inhibitor blocking HCV assembly and replication. Together they target two essential viral processes, achieving >95% SVR (sustained virologic response = cure) in 12 weeks.

Q3: What does 'pan-genotypic' mean for Velasof?

Velpatasvir provides potent activity against all HCV genotypes 1–6, meaning Velasof can be prescribed without genotype testing in most countries. This simplifies treatment and reduces costs compared to older genotype-specific regimens.

Q4: How long is Velasof treatment?

12 weeks for treatment-naive and treatment-experienced non-cirrhotic patients. Patients with decompensated cirrhosis require 12 weeks + ribavirin. Treatment-experienced patients with cirrhosis may need 24 weeks. Your hepatologist determines duration.

Q5: How is Velasof taken?

Take one tablet once daily with or without food. Complete the full prescribed course — stopping early dramatically reduces cure rates. The 12-week course is 84 tablets total.

Q6: What are the most common side effects?

Velasof is generally very well-tolerated. Common side effects include fatigue, headache, nausea, and insomnia. These are mild and rarely require treatment discontinuation. If used with ribavirin, anemia and rash are additional concerns.

Q7: What drug interactions affect Velasof in HIV patients?

Antacids (PPIs, H2 blockers) can significantly reduce Velpatasvir absorption. Moderate CYP3A4 inducers (efavirenz) reduce both drug levels — requires dose adjustment. Some HIV PIs interact with Sofosbuvir. Full pharmacist review before starting is essential.

Q8: What happens if there is HBV co-infection?

HCV DAAs can trigger HBV reactivation in HBV/HCV co-infected patients. HBsAg and HBcAb testing before starting is mandatory. HBsAg-positive patients need concurrent HBV therapy to prevent reactivation during and after HCV treatment.

Q9: How is HCV cure confirmed?

SVR12 (sustained virologic response at 12 weeks post-treatment) means HCV RNA is undetectable 12 weeks after finishing treatment. This is considered functional cure — over 99% of patients with SVR12 remain HCV-free long-term.

Q10: Is Velasof safe during pregnancy?

Limited data in pregnancy. Ribavirin (if required) is absolutely contraindicated in pregnancy and for 6 months after treatment in both partners. Sofosbuvir/Velpatasvir without ribavirin may be considered in urgent cases — specialist guidance required.

Q11: How should Velasof be stored?

Store at room temperature below 30°C, away from light and moisture. Keep in original packaging out of reach of children.

Q12: Do I need a prescription for Velasof?

Yes. Velasof requires specialist prescribing (hepatologist or HIV/ID specialist with HCV expertise), baseline HCV RNA and genotype testing, liver fibrosis assessment, and post-treatment SVR monitoring.