Common Use

The active ingredient in Generic Sovaldi is Sofosbuvir - 400 mg. Sofosbuvir is a nucleotide analog used in combination with other medications to treat hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. It is prescribed for chronic hepatitis C genotypes 1, 2, 3, and 4, often combined with pegylated interferon and ribavirin or ribavirin alone. Additionally, it is used with the NS5a inhibitor ledipasvir for genotype 1 HCV in an interferon-free regimen. Sofosbuvir is also effective for HCV patients with HIV coinfection.

Clinical trials, such as the ELECTRON trial, have demonstrated its efficacy. For instance, sofosbuvir plus ribavirin achieved a 24-week post-treatment sustained virological response (SVR24) rate of 100% in untreated patients with HCV genotypes 2 or 3. The safety and effectiveness of sofosbuvir in children under 18 years of age remain unknown.

Dosage and Direction

The usual adult dose for chronic hepatitis C is 400 mg taken orally once daily. The recommended regimens and duration of therapy include:

• Genotype 1 or 4: Sofosbuvir, peginterferon alfa, and ribavirin for 12 weeks
• Genotype 2: Sofosbuvir and ribavirin for 12 weeks
• Genotype 3: Sofosbuvir and ribavirin for 24 weeks
• Hepatocellular carcinoma awaiting liver transplantation: Sofosbuvir and ribavirin for up to 48 weeks or until transplantation

This medication must be used in combination with ribavirin or pegylated interferon and ribavirin. It is effective for HCV genotypes 1, 2, 3, and 4, including patients with hepatocellular carcinoma meeting Milan criteria or HCV/HIV coinfection. A 24-week regimen of sofosbuvir and ribavirin may be considered for genotype 1 patients who cannot use interferon-based therapy. Sofosbuvir and ribavirin are also recommended for patients awaiting liver transplantation to prevent post-transplant HCV reinfection.

Precautions

Consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting Generic Sovaldi, especially if you are allergic to the drug or taking other hepatitis C medications. Inform your doctor if you have:

• Liver problems other than hepatitis or a history of liver transplant
• Kidney disease or if you are on dialysis
• HIV infection
• Recent use of the heart rhythm medication amiodarone

Sofosbuvir is used with ribavirin, which can cause birth defects or fetal death. A negative pregnancy test is required before and during treatment. Notify your doctor immediately if pregnancy occurs while either parent is using this combination. Men should avoid this drug if their partner is pregnant. Breastfeeding is not recommended while taking sofosbuvir as its effects on nursing infants are unknown. This medication does not prevent HCV transmission; avoid unprotected sex, sharing razors, or toothbrushes.

Contraindications

Alcohol consumption while taking Generic Sovaldi may lead to dangerous or unwanted side effects. Grapefruit and grapefruit juice can interact with sofosbuvir, potentially causing adverse effects. Avoid grapefruit products during treatment.

Possible Side Effects

Seek medical attention immediately if you experience pale skin, light-headedness, shortness of breath, rapid heart rate, trouble concentrating, fever, swollen gums, mouth sores, skin sores, cold or flu symptoms, or cough. Common side effects include headache, tiredness, mild itching, nausea, and sleep problems. This is not a complete list, and other side effects may occur. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for medical advice. Report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Drug Interactions

Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking the following medications:

• Amiodarone
• Carbamazepine
• Eliglustat
• Fosphenytoin
• Oxcarbazepine
• Phenobarbital
• Phenytoin
• Primidone
• Rifabutin
• Rifampin
• Rifapentine
• St John's Wort
• Tipranavir
• Ulipristal

Missed Dose

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip it if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for the missed dose. Avoid exceeding 400 mg of sofosbuvir in one day.

Overdose

In case of an overdose, seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

Storage

Store Generic Sovaldi at 25°C (77°F), with excursions permitted between 15°C and 30°C (59°F and 86°F). Keep it away from moisture and heat, and out of reach of children and pets.

Disclaimer

We provide general information about medications, which does not cover all directions, possible drug interactions, or precautions. The information on this site cannot be used for self-treatment or self-diagnosis. Specific instructions for individual patients should be agreed upon with a healthcare adviser or doctor. We disclaim the reliability of this information and any potential errors. We are not responsible for any direct, indirect, special, or other damages resulting from the use of this information or self-treatment.