When you found out you had Hepatitis C, did your doctor tell you to start a new medication? You may have been a little confused when you saw the name of the medication. That's normal. Today we're going to talk about this combination of drugs called Ledipasvir and Sofosbuvir that you were prescribed. Let's keep it simple and easy for you to understand, okay?
What is Ledipasvir; Sofosbuvir?
Simply put, this is a combination of two antiviral drugs. These two drugs are combined to treat a viral infection called Hepatitis C. This virus damages our liver. So what this medicine does is control the multiplication of that virus in the body and cure the infection.
Importantly, this medication does not work at all against other viral illnesses, such as colds and flu. Therefore, it should only be used if your doctor prescribes it for hepatitis C. Sometimes you may find this medication under the brand name Harvoni.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
For your safety and to get the most out of your medication, it is essential to discuss your complete health history with your doctor before starting treatment. Be sure to mention any of the conditions listed in the table below if you have any.
| Health condition or fact | Description |
|---|---|
| Other liver diseases | If you have previously had hepatitis B or have any other liver disease, other than hepatitis C. |
| Diabetes | If you are diabetic, say so. |
| Heart Disease | If you have any type of heart disease or heart rhythm irregularities. |
| HIV or AIDS | If you have HIV or AIDS infection. |
| Allergies | If you have allergies to this medicine, other medicines, foods, preservatives, or dyes. |
| Pregnancy and breastfeeding | If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding. |
How should I use this medicine?
To get the best results from this medicine, it is very important to take it exactly as prescribed by your doctor, at the right time, and in the right dosage. Never skip a dose. Continue taking it until your doctor tells you to stop.
This medicine comes in the form of small pellets. There are two ways to take it.
If taken without food:
Place all the tablets in the packet directly into your mouth. Swallow them whole without chewing . If necessary, you can drink some water after taking the medicine.
If taken mixed with food:
Mix the tablets with a non-acidic, soft food. For example, you can mix them with a little pudding, mashed potatoes, or ice cream. You should swallow them without chewing within 30 minutes of mixing .
If you give it to children...
This medicine can be prescribed to children over the age of 3 in some selected cases. However, a pediatrician should decide on this. Therefore, if you are giving this medicine to your child, talk to your doctor carefully and get advice.
What to do if you take too much medicine?
If you think you have accidentally taken too much of this medicine, contact the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital immediately. Otherwise, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) without delay.
Other things that may interact with this medicine
Other medications you are taking can affect the effectiveness of this medicine. Therefore, you should tell your doctor about all medications you are taking (prescribed by your doctor, purchased from a pharmacy, traditional medicines, vitamins).
| Drug category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Medicine for heart disease | Amiodarone, Digoxin |
| Antivirals for HIV/AIDS | Medicines containing Tenofovir, Efavirenz, Tipranavir |
| Some antibiotics | Rifampin, Rifabutin, Rifapentine |
| Medicines for epilepsy/ seizures | Carbamazepine, Phenobarbital, Phenytoin |
| Medicines for stomach problems (gastritis) | Omeprazole, Esomeprazole, Famotidine, Ranitidine, antacids containing aluminum/magnesium |
| Cholesterol-lowering medications | Rosuvastatin |
| Blood thinners | Warfarin |
| Herbal products | St. John's Wort |
Things to keep in mind when taking medication
Something to pay special attention to!
If you have previously had hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection , taking this medicine may cause your old HBV infection to become active again. This can be dangerous. Therefore, if you have previously had HBV, your doctor will check your blood regularly for it. Tell your doctor right away if you have any of the following symptoms:
- If you feel lifeless
- Appetite
- If the eyes or skin turn yellow
- If you feel unusually tired
- If the stool turns pale
If you have diabetes
This medicine may change your blood sugar levels. If you are taking medication for diabetes, talk to your doctor about whether you need to make changes to your diet or diabetes medication.
What are the possible side effects?
Like all medications, this one can have side effects, but not everyone gets them.
| Side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
|---|---|
Allergic Reactions: Symptoms include skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue. | |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to your doctor if they are bothersome | |
| Headache | Feeling sick (nausea) |
| Bloating (diarrhea) | Difficulty falling asleep |
| Fatigue/tiredness | |
This list does not include all side effects. If you notice anything unusual, talk to your doctor about it.
Take-Home Message
- Ledipasvir; Sofosbuvir is a special treatment given only for the Hepatitis C virus.
- Before starting the medication, tell your doctor about all your health information and all other medications you are taking.
- Take your medicine exactly as the doctor says, on time, and don't skip doses.
- If you have had hepatitis B (HBV) before, be especially careful. Tell your doctor immediately if you develop symptoms such as yellowing of the eyes.
- If you have any unusual side effects or concerns, don't hesitate to talk to your doctor. Your health is the most important thing.
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