Velpanat Tablet

1. Product Introduction

Velpanat Tablet is a highly effective antiviral medication used in the treatment of chronic Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. It is a fixed-dose combination of two direct-acting antiviral agents—Sofosbuvir (400mg) and Velpatasvir (100mg)—that work together to stop the replication of the hepatitis C virus in the body.

Manufactured by Natco Pharma Ltd, Velpanat is considered a breakthrough in HCV treatment, offering a high cure rate with a simple, once-daily oral regimen. The combination works against all major genotypes of HCV (1 to 6), making it a pan-genotypic therapy suitable for most HCV patients, with or without cirrhosis.

Velpanat is usually prescribed for a duration of 12 weeks and does not require interferon or ribavirin for most patients, greatly reducing the burden of side effects traditionally associated with hepatitis C treatments.

2. Uses of Velpanat Tablet

Velpanat is used to treat:

• Chronic Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) Infection

• All HCV genotypes (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6)

• HCV patients with or without compensated or decompensated liver cirrhosis

• Patients who are treatment-naïve or those who have failed previous HCV therapies

In certain advanced cases, such as decompensated liver disease, Velpanat may be used in combination with Ribavirin as advised by a healthcare provider.

3. Benefits of Velpanat Tablet

✅ Pan-Genotypic Effectiveness
Velpanat treats all major types of hepatitis C virus, eliminating the need for genotype testing in many cases and simplifying treatment decisions.

✅ High Cure Rate (SVR > 95%)
Most patients achieve Sustained Virologic Response (SVR), meaning the virus becomes undetectable and remains that way even after treatment ends, signifying a cure.

✅ Simple Oral Regimen
A single tablet taken once daily for 12 weeks eliminates the need for injectable or complex treatment protocols.

✅ Minimal Side Effects
Compared to older treatments like interferon, Velpanat is well-tolerated and associated with fewer and milder side effects.

✅ Short Treatment Duration
Standard course of 12 weeks results in viral clearance, offering faster recovery and improved quality of life.

✅ Prevents Liver Complications
Early and effective treatment with Velpanat helps prevent liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and even liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma).

✅ Improves Overall Health
With the virus eliminated, liver function improves, fatigue decreases, and long-term health outcomes are significantly better.

4. Side Effects

Velpanat is generally safe and well-tolerated. However, like all medications, some patients may experience side effects.

Common Side Effects:

• Fatigue or tiredness

• Headache

• Nausea

• Diarrhea

• Difficulty sleeping (insomnia)

Less Common Side Effects:

• Dizziness

• Anemia (especially when taken with Ribavirin)

• Irritability

• Weakness

• Muscle aches

Note: If you experience symptoms like yellowing of the eyes/skin (jaundice), chest pain, irregular heartbeat, or allergic reactions (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing), seek medical help immediately.

Patients with pre-existing conditions such as liver cirrhosis, kidney disease, or HIV co-infection should consult their doctor before using this medicine.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. How does Velpanat work?
A: Velpanat contains Sofosbuvir and Velpatasvir, which inhibit two different viral proteins (NS5B and NS5A) essential for Hepatitis C virus replication. This combination halts virus production and leads to complete clearance from the body.

Q2. Can Velpanat cure Hepatitis C?
A: Yes. When taken correctly for the recommended 12-week course, Velpanat can cure over 95% of patients by achieving an SVR (Sustained Virologic Response), which means the virus is no longer detectable.

Q3. How long should I take Velpanat?
A: The standard course is 12 weeks. However, patients with advanced liver disease or treatment failure may require 24 weeks of treatment or additional medications like Ribavirin. Always follow your doctor’s advice.

Q4. Can I stop taking the tablet if I feel better?
A: No. Complete the entire prescribed course even if you start feeling better early. Discontinuing the medication too soon can lead to viral relapse or drug resistance.

Q5. What happens if I miss a dose?
A: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.