What is Epclusa: Uses, Warnings & Interactions

Updated Jan 12, 2021  •  Published Dec 30, 2020

Epclusa overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • Epclusa

Generic Names:

  • Sofosbuvir-Velpatasvir

Uses:

  • Treats chronic hepatitis C infection.

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Antiviral

Forms:

  • Tablet

How it’s taken:

  • By mouth

What is Epclusa used for?

Epclusa is an antiviral used to treat hepatitis C infection. It is usually used in combination with sofosbuvir and velpatasvir to reduce the amount of hepatitis C virus in the body. It is also used with ribavirin to treat advanced cirrhosis of the liver. It is indicated for use by adults and is available as a tablet.

What form(s) does Epclusa come in

  • Tablet

What are common Epclusa doses?

  • Bottle 28 Tablets

Common Epclusa prescriptions

  • Epclusa
    28 tablets bottle

  • Epclusa
    28 packet box

How to take Epclusa

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep the medicine in its original container.

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

  • Swallow the tablet whole. Do not crush, break, or chew it.

  • Take all of the medicine in your prescription to clear up your infection, even if you feel better after the first few doses.

  • Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

  • Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep the medicine in its original container.

  • Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

  • Swallow the tablet whole. Do not crush, break, or chew it.

  • Take all of the medicine in your prescription to clear up your infection, even if you feel better after the first few doses.

  • Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

Epclusa contraindications

  • This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it together with ribavirin if you are pregnant or your sexual partner is pregnant.

Epclusa warnings

  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

  • Ribavirin may cause birth defects if either partner is using it together with this medicine during conception or pregnancy. Tell your doctor right away if you or your partner becomes pregnant. Follow all directions about birth control.

  • Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding, or if you have kidney disease, other liver disease (including hepatitis B), HIV infection, or heart disease.

  • Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.

Epclusa interactions

  • Amiodarone can cause serious side effects if used together with sofosbuvir or if you have used it recently.

  • Some medicines can affect how this medicine works. Tell your doctor if you are using any of the following:Atorvastatin, digoxin, efavirenz, rifabutin, rifampin, rifapentine, rosuvastatin, St John's wort, tenofovir, tipranavir/ritonavir, or topotecanBlood pressure medicineCancer medicineMedicine to treat seizures (including carbamazepine, oxcarbazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin)Steroid medicineStomach medicine (including famotidine, omeprazole)

  • If you take an antacid that contains aluminum or magnesium, take it 4 hours before or after you take this medicine.

  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Epclusa side effects

Serious Side Effects

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing

  • Dark urine or pale stools, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach pain, yellow skin or eyes

  • Fainting, dizziness, or lightheadedness

  • Slow or uneven heartbeat

Less Serious Side Effects

  • Headache

  • Tiredness or weakness, trouble sleeping

  • Diarrhea