What is Epclusa?
Epclusa is a prescription medicine used to treat chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in adults and children above 6 years or weighing at least 17 kg. It is a combination antiviral drug that contains two active ingredients:
- Sofosbuvir (400 mg) – a nucleotide polymerase inhibitor
- Velpatasvir (100 mg) – an NS5A inhibitor
Table of Contents
What is Epclusa Used to Treat?
Epclusa is mainly used for:
- Treating all 6 major genotypes of Hepatitis C (1 to 6)
- Patients with or without cirrhosis (liver scarring)
- Patients with HIV co-infection (after doctor’s advice)
- It can be used with ribavirin in certain cases (especially with decompensated cirrhosis)
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Epclusa Treatment Duration
- Standard Duration: 12 weeks (once daily dose)
- With Ribavirin: 12 weeks (for advanced liver disease)
- Some patients may need longer treatment depending on their liver condition.
How long does it take for Epclusa to clear Hep C?
Most patients are cured (achieve SVR – Sustained Virologic Response) after 12 weeks of treatment.
Epclusa Dosage Guide
- Adults: One tablet of Epclusa (400 mg Sofosbuvir + 100 mg Velpatasvir) once daily with or without food.
- Children (≥6 years or ≥17 kg): Dose adjusted by doctor depending on weight.
Epclusa Tablet Information
- Strength: 400 mg/100 mg (Sofosbuvir/Velpatasvir)
- Form: Film-coated tablet
- Generic Available: Yes (sofosbuvir + velpatasvir generic versions are cheaper)
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Epclusa Price
The price of Epclusa depends on the country and whether it’s brand name or generic.
- India (Generic versions): ₹15,000 – ₹25,000 for 12 weeks
- United States (Brand name Epclusa): $24,000 – $30,000 for 12 weeks
- Epclusa 400 mg-100 mg Tablet Price: Approx ₹1,200 – ₹2,000 per tablet (generic, India)
👉 Many patients use generic Epclusa from India to reduce cost.
Side Effects of Epclusa
Most side effects are mild and manageable, but some patients may experience stronger reactions.
Common Side Effects
- Headache
- Tiredness / fatigue
- Weakness
- Nausea
- Trouble sleeping
Less Common but Serious Side Effects
- Depression or mood changes
- Slow heart rate (especially with amiodarone)
- Allergic reaction (rash, itching, swelling)
- Chest pain or irregular heartbeat
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Warnings Before Taking Epclusa
- Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Consult doctor. Ribavirin + Epclusa is unsafe in pregnancy.
- Liver Problems: Inform doctor if you have cirrhosis.
- Heart Patients: Do not use with amiodarone – risk of fatal bradycardia.
- Kidney Patients: Doctor may adjust treatment plan.
- Other Medicines: Drug interactions are possible (see below).
What Should I Avoid While Taking Epclusa?
- Do not take antacids (aluminum/magnesium hydroxide) within 4 hours of Epclusa.
- Avoid St. John’s Wort (herbal supplement).
- Avoid high-fat, heavy alcohol consumption – can stress the liver.
- Do not stop medicine without doctor’s advice.
Epclusa Interactions
Epclusa may interact with:
- Amiodarone (risk of severe heart problems)
- Antacids & PPIs (omeprazole, pantoprazole) – reduce Epclusa absorption
- Certain HIV medicines – efavirenz, tenofovir, tipranavir
- Herbal products – St. John’s Wort
👉 Always give your complete medicine list to your doctor before starting Epclusa.
Epclusa Generic Availability
Yes, Epclusa has generic versions available in many countries, especially India, Bangladesh, and Egypt, which are much cheaper but equally effective.
FAQs About Epclusa
Q1. What is Epclusa used to treat?
Epclusa is used to treat chronic Hepatitis C infection (all 6 genotypes).
Q2. How much does 12 weeks of Epclusa cost?
- In India (generic): ₹15,000 – ₹25,000
- In the US (brand): $24,000 – $30,000
Q3. How long does it take for Epclusa to clear Hep C?
Most patients are cured within 12 weeks.
Q4. What should I avoid while taking Epclusa?
Avoid antacids, alcohol, St. John’s Wort, and amiodarone.
Q5. Is Epclusa safe?
Yes, it is FDA-approved and safe for most patients. Always follow doctor’s advice.
Q6. Can Epclusa be used in children?
Yes, for children aged 6 years and older or weighing at least 17 kg.
Q7. Is Epclusa available as a generic?
Yes, many generic brands are available in India and other countries at lower prices.
