What is Sovaldi (Sofosbuvir) prescribed for?

Hepatitis C is a liver infection that can lead to very serious liver damage. It has few symptoms, so most of the time you wouldn’t know you have it. The virus spreads through an infected person’s blood or bodily fluids.

Sovaldi is an antiviral medication made to treat chronic hepatitis C. This is a viral infection of the liver. This medication prevents hepatitis C virus from multiplying in your body, which may help you liver recover. This is important because chronic hepatitis C infection can cause serious liver problems such as scarring (cirrhosis), or liver cancer.

 It is normally used in combination with other antiviral medications to treat hepatitis C. It works by reducing the amount of hepatitis C virus within your body, and helps your body’s immune system fight off the infection.

Do not share needles, and practice "safer sex" (including the use of latex condoms) to lower the risk of passing the virus to others. Sofosbuvir must be used in combination treatment to have the best effect. Do not use sofosbuvir alone to treat hepatitis C.

This medication is to be taken by mouth, with or without food, and taken once a day or as directed by your doctor. Remember the dosage is based on your medical condition, age, and response to the treatment. This medication also works at its best when the amount of the drug in your body is kept at a constant level. Therefore, you should be taking this medication at evenly spaced intervals.

It is important you continue to take this medication for the full length of the time prescribed, even If your symptoms disappear after a short time.

Before taking this medication, it is best to advise your doctor if you are allergic to Sofosbuvir; or to any other medications or allergies in general. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: kidney disease, other liver problems (such as hepatitis B), diabetes.

If you have diabetes, your blood sugar may be lower with hepatitis C treatment. This can increase your risk of low blood sugar, so your doctor may adjust your diabetes treatment plan. Tell your doctor right away if you have symptoms of low blood sugar such as sudden sweating, shaking, fast heartbeat, hunger, blurred vision, dizziness, or tingling hands/feet.

While minor, some of these side effects may occur. They are as follows; Tiredness, headache, nausea, diarrhea, itchy skin, difficulty sleeping, or irritability may occur. However if any of these persist or worsen, it’s best to speak with your doctor right away.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: signs of low red blood cell count (such as unusual tiredness, rapid breathing, pale skin, shortness of breath, fast heartbeat).

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

What happens if I suddenly stop taking this medication?

There may be a relapse in symptoms as well as side effects. You should speak your doctor before stop taking this medication.

 What is the best dosage to take?

The diagnosis with your doctor will be able to determine the best dosage for your treatment. Work with your doctor closely for dosage and dosing schedules.

 What happens if I miss a dose?

You should take the missed dose as soon you realize you have forgotten. If the forgotten dose is closer to your next scheduled dose, take the next schedule dose to avoid overlapping in dose.

 What is the best way to store this medication?

This medication is stored at room temperature, and should be kept away from children and pets. Do not throw away this medication in the wastebasket. If you are uncertain how to dispose of this medication speak with your pharmacist for help in safely disposing of this medication.