Did the doctor tell you that you have Hepatitis C, a liver disease? Then don't worry about it. Because today there are very effective treatments that can completely cure this disease. That's what we are going to talk about today. This medicine contains two active ingredients called Glecaprevir and Pibrentasvir. It is most commonly available in the market under the name Mavyret.
Simply put, what is this medicine?
This is an antiviral medicine. Specifically, it is designed to specifically target and kill the hepatitis C virus . This means that this medicine will help to destroy the hepatitis C virus in your body and stop the damage it causes to your liver.
One important thing to remember is that this medicine does not work at all against other viral infections, such as the common cold or flu. It's like one key can only open one door.
Doctors may also prescribe this medicine for other conditions, so if you have any questions, talk to your doctor about it.
Things you should tell your doctor before taking this medicine
Before starting this treatment, it is essential that you give your doctor a complete description of your health condition. Be sure to tell them about any of the following, especially if you have any of the following:
- Other liver diseases: If you have another liver disease (e.g. cirrhosis) in addition to hepatitis C.
- Hepatitis B: This is very important if you have ever had hepatitis B before, because the inactive hepatitis B virus can sometimes become reactivated when using this medicine.
- If you have HIV or AIDS .
- Diabetes: Tell your doctor if you have diabetes, as this medicine may affect blood sugar levels.
- If you are trying to get pregnant, are pregnant, or are a nursing mother: You should also inform your doctor about these situations.
- Other Allergies: Tell us if you have any allergies to this medicine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives.
The correct way to use the medicine
The way this medicine is used is a little different, so please read and understand these instructions carefully.
This comes in the form of small granules (oral pellets). It should never be cut, crushed, or chewed.
1. Open the medicine packet and mix the granules with a teaspoon or two of food. You can use peanut butter, chocolate spread, cream cheese, thick jam, or Greek yogurt.
2. Swallow this medicine and food immediately . Be careful not to chew the medicine tablets.
3. To get the most out of your treatment, it is very important to take your medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor, at the right time, and without skipping any days .
4. Continue using this treatment until your doctor tells you to stop.
This medicine is sometimes given to children over 3 years of age. However, it requires special instructions, so talk to your doctor carefully before giving this to a child.
What to do if the medication dose is increased?
If you think you have taken more than the prescribed dose, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
What if I miss a dose of medication?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is less than 6 hours until your next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the usual time. Never take a double dose.
Other medications that may interact with this medicine
This is a very important part. Some medications can interact with this medicine, reducing its effectiveness or increasing side effects. So tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking (including herbal remedies and vitamins).
| Drug Interactions | |
|---|---|
| ❌ Medicines that should never be taken with this medicine: | |
| Atazanavir | A drug used to treat HIV |
| Elagolix | A drug for endometriosis |
| Rifampin | A medicine given for bacterial infections such as tuberculosis |
| ⚠️ Be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking these medications: | |
| Birth control pills | The effectiveness of birth control pills may be affected when taken with this medicine. |
| Cholesterol-lowering drugs | Ex: Atorvastatin, Lovastatin, Simvastatin |
| Some medications for diabetes | Ex: Glipizide, Glyburide |
| Medicines for epilepsy/ seizures | Ex: Carbamazepine, Phenytoin |
| Other medications | Cyclosporine, Dabigatran, Darunavir, Digoxin, Efavirenz, Lopinavir, Ritonavir, Warfarin |
| St. John's wort | This is an herbal supplement used for mental health. It may also interact with this medication. |
Things to consider during treatment
- Regular medical check-ups: Be sure to go to the clinic on the days your doctor prescribes to monitor the progress of your treatment. Tell your doctor immediately if your symptoms do not improve or if they worsen.
- Blood work: While taking this medication, your doctor will order several blood tests to check things like your liver function.
- Diabetes: If you have diabetes, check your blood sugar levels regularly. If this medicine causes changes in your blood sugar levels, talk to your doctor about whether you need to make changes to your diet or diabetes medication.
Possible side effects of the medicine
Like all medications, this one can have side effects, but most people don't experience serious side effects.
| Serious side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
|---|---|
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips or tongue. |
| Symptoms of liver injury | Dark yellow or brown urine, feeling lethargic, fever, loss of appetite, pain in the upper right side of the stomach, extreme tiredness, yellowing of the eyes or skin (similar to jaundice). |
| Side effects that are usually nothing to worry about, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Diarrhea | Flatulence. |
| Headache | Headache. |
| Nausea | Feeling like vomiting. |
| Tiredness | Lifeless body. |
This list may not include all side effects. If you experience any other unusual symptoms, talk to your doctor about them as well.
How do you store and dispose of medication?
- Storage: Keep out of reach of children and pets. Store at room temperature below 30 degrees Celsius. Do not use expired medicine.
- Disposal: If you need to dispose of expired or unwanted medication, check the package insert to see if it is safe to throw it in the trash. If you are unsure, ask your doctor. If it is safe to throw it in the trash, mix the medication with something like coffee grounds, soil, or used tea leaves, put it in a tightly sealed bag, and throw it in the trash.
Take-Home Message
- This medicine is only used for hepatitis C.
- Always take the medicine with food, and swallow the granules whole without chewing.
- Take your medicine at the prescribed time, without skipping a day, as prescribed by the doctor.
- Tell your doctor about all other medications you take and all your medical conditions (especially liver disease, diabetes, and a history of hepatitis B).
- If you experience a serious side effect such as yellowing of the eyes/skin, seek medical advice immediately.
- If you have any questions about this medication, never be afraid to ask your doctor .
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