Precautions
Harvoni is usually taken once per day for 12 to 24 weeks. Follow your doctor's dosing instructions very carefully. You will need frequent blood tests to check your liver function. If you have ever had hepatitis B, Harvoni can cause this condition to come back or get worse.
How long should I take Harvoni?
Harvoni is a brand-name prescription medication that’s used to treat hepatitis C. Harvoni contains two drugs: ledipasvir and sofosbuvir. It comes as a tablet that’s typically taken once daily for 12 weeks. Harvoni is a type of drug called a direct-acting antiviral (DAA).
What is Harvoni used to treat?
In most clinical studies for Harvoni, the success rate for curing hepatitis C was greater than 90 percent. This means that nearly all people who took Harvoni achieved a sustained virologic response (SVR). SVR means that they had no virus detected in their body 12 weeks or longer after treatment ended.
What is the success rate of Harvoni for hepatitis C?
Harvoni may be prescribed for 8, 12, or 24 weeks of treatment. Mavyret’s treatment duration may be 8, 12, or 16 weeks. The length of treatment your doctor prescribes will be based on your hepatitis C genotype, liver function, and history of past hepatitis C treatments.
How long do Harvoni and Mavyret last?
Does Harvoni completely cure hep C?
HARVONI transformed hepatitis C (Hep C) treatment as the first cure that's one pill, once a day for the majority of patients. Cure means the Hep C virus is not detected in the blood when measured 3 months after treatment is completed.
Can Hep C come back after Harvoni treatment?
It's possible, but rare, for hepatitis C infection to reappear after apparently successful treatment. Relapses usually occur in the first few months after blood testing to confirm that the virus is no longer detectable.
Can Harvoni cause cirrhosis of the liver?
Underlying hepatitis B infections that are reactivated when hepatitis C treatments, such as Harvoni, are started can lead to liver failure, liver damage, and even death.
What does Harvoni do to your body?
Harvoni prevents the hepatitis C virus (HCV) from multiplying in the body. It is a single combination pill that is given by mouth once a day for 8, 12, or 24 weeks, depending upon your HCV status.
How long does it take for your liver to heal after hep C treatment?
If someone's liver has mild to moderate damage (fibrosis) and the hepatitis C virus is eliminated and no other liver damage effects are occurring, the liver can regenerate and heal within a few days up to 3-6 months, approximately.
Can hep C be cured forever?
The good news is hepatitis C is curable. Though it is a chronic infection, recently developed drugs can clear the virus completely from the system.
Can Harvoni cause hair loss?
Hair loss wasn't reported as a side effect in clinical studies of Harvoni. Some people have reported losing hair while taking the drug, but it's not clear if Harvoni was the cause of their hair loss. It's important to note that hair loss can be a symptom of hepatitis C.
Can you drink alcohol while on Harvoni?
Can you drink alcohol while taking Harvoni? The answer from several leading organizations is: no. You should not drink alcohol while taking this drug. The HCV Advocate is a nonprofit support group that offers advice for hepatitis C patients.
Does Harvoni make you gain weight?
Weight gain has not been reported as a side effect of Harvoni in clinical trials. However, some individuals on blog posts report gaining weight (from two to 12 pounds); however, this was temporary and easily lost once treatment with Harvoni finished.
Does Harvoni cure liver cirrhosis?
Harvoni is used to treat people with HCV genotypes 1, 4, 5, and 6. Harvoni has been shown to cure up to 99 percent of people (without cirrhosis) who take it for 12 weeks.
Do you feel better after Hep C treatment?
Since hepatitis C doesn't always cause any symptoms, you may not feel any different after being cured. If you were experiencing symptoms — fatigue is the common one — you should start to feel stronger and more energetic, which should continue to improve after you finish treatment, says Massoud.
Does Harvoni affect your kidneys?
If you have mild kidney disease, you should be able to take Harvoni without any problems. Your doctor will likely prescribe the normal dosage for you. But if you have severe kidney disease, your body may not be able to process the drug well.
What is the difference between hepatitis B and C?
Some of the main differences between hepatitis B and C are: Hepatitis B virus can be prevented with a vaccine, but not hepatitis C. Hepatitis B and...
Is Mavyret better than Harvoni?
Mavyret is reported to have some advantages over Harvoni including the number of hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotypes it covers, the length of treatme...
What are the new drugs for the treatment of hepatitis C?
The newest drugs for the treatment of hepatitis C include Mavyret (glecaprevir and pibrentasvir), Vosevi (sofosbuvir, velpatasvir, and voxilaprevir...
Do I need to follow a special diet while taking Harvoni?
No, there is no special diet required while you take Harvoni. However, if you experience nausea or stomach pain as a side effect of Harvoni, it may...
How long will Harvoni take to get rid of my hepatitis C?
Harvoni will start working right away to fight the virus. However, in order to get rid of hepatitis C, you will need to take Harvoni for the full l...
What is the cure rate for Harvoni?
The cure rate for Harvoni depends on certain aspects of your hepatitis C. This includes whether or not you have cirrhosis, what hepatitis C treatme...
Can hepatitis C come back after taking Harvoni?
If you take Harvoni every day as directed by your doctor and you maintain a healthy lifestyle, the virus shouldn’t return. However, it’s possible t...
What is a hepatitis C genotype?
There are six different strains, or types, of hepatitis C viruses that are known to infect people. These strains are called genotypes. Genotypes ar...
How long does Harvoni last?
Harvoni is a pill you take once a day for 2 to 6 months. How long you'll take it depends on how much of the virus is in your blood (your doctor might call it your viral load), as well as: Talk to your doctor if you have any questions about how to take your medications.
What is the cure rate for Harvoni?
It means there is no virus in your blood 12 weeks after your treatment is over. The cure rate for Harvoni is 94% to 99% when you don’t have other serious illnesses. You have advanced liver disease. Your liver has some scarring (fibrosis).
How does Harvoni work?
The hepatitis C virus spreads most commonly through needles shared by drug users, but sexual contact can also pass it on. Harvoni is a combination of two drugs. Each one blocks a protein that the hep c virus needs in order to grow: Ledipasvir blocks a protein called NS5A.
What is Harvoni hep C?
Risks and Side Effects. Cost. Ledipasvir-sofosbuvir ( Harvoni) is an antiviral medication that attacks the hepatitis C virus. It's one of the most effective treatments for hep C.
Does insurance cover Harvoni?
Check with your provider to be sure. If your insurance doesn't cover your prescription, there are groups that may be able to provide Harvoni for little or no charge. Other discounts may also apply.
Does Harvoni work with Moderiba?
In some treatment plans, Harvoni may team with another drug called ribavirin ( Moderiba). The majority of those who take Harvoni don’t have side effects. But some people have headaches or get more tired than usual. Tell your doctor if you have hepatitis B because it can flare up or reactivate if you take Harvoni.
What are the side effects of Harvoni?
Harvoni side effects. Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to Harvoni: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you have new or worsening symptoms such as: jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), and not feeling well.
What is Harvoni used for?
Harvoni is used to treat chronic hepatitis C in adults and children who are at least 3 years old. Harvoni is sometimes given in combination with another medicine called ribavirin . Harvoni treats specific genotypes of hepatitis C, and only in certain people. Use only the medications prescribed for you.
What are the new drugs for hepatitis C?
What are the new drugs for the treatment of hepatitis C? The newest drugs for the treatment of hepatitis C include Mavyret (glecaprevir and pibrentasvir), Vosevi (sofosbuvir, velpatasvir, and voxilaprevir), and Epclusa (sofosbuvir and velpatasvir).
How long after taking antacids can you take Sofosbuvir?
If you also take an antacid: Wait at least 4 hours after taking the antacid before you take ledipasvir and sofosbuvir. If you also take a stomach acid reducer: You may need to wait 12 hours after taking the stomach acid medicine before you take ledipasvir and sofosbuvir.
What are the conditions that can be treated with Sofosbuvir?
hepatitis B (you may be tested for this before you take sofosbuvir); liver problems other than hepatitis (including a liver transplant ); kidney disease (or if you are on dialysis); HIV or AIDS; a heart rhythm problem for which you take a medicine called amiodarone; or.
Can Harvoni be used in combination with other medications?
You may need frequent liver function tests for several months. Harvoni is sometimes used in combination with other medication. Read the medication guide or patient instructions provided with each medication in your combination therapy. Do not change your doses or medication schedule without your doctor's advice.
Can Harvoni cause stomach pain?
right-sided upper stomach pain; vomiting, loss of appetite; or. jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), and not feeling well. If you take Harvoni and you also take a heart rhythm medicine called amiodarone: This combination of medicines can cause dangerous side effects on your heart.
How long does it take for Harvoni to go away?
Most of these side effects may go away within a few days or a couple of weeks.
Why is it important to take Harvoni?
This is because following your treatment plan increases your chances of curing your hepatitis C (HCV). It also helps reduce your risk of the long-term effects of HCV, which include cirrhosis and liver cancer.
What is Harvoni used for?
Harvoni is FDA-approved to treat hepatitis C in adults with genotypes 1, 4, 5, or 6. It can also be used to treat children with these genotypes who are aged 12 and up or who weigh at least 77 pounds.
Is Harvoni the same as Zepatier?
Harvoni and Zepatier are similar medications and their effects on the body are alike. Therefore, they cause many of the same side effects. Below are some examples of their side effects.
Does Sovaldi have side effects?
Because of this, the side effects seen with Sovaldi treatment depend on the drug it’s used with. Common and serious side effects for Harvoni and Sovaldi are shown below. The Sovaldi side effects described are seen when Sovaldi is used with other hepatitis C drugs such as ribavirin and pegylated interferon.
Is Epclusa the same as Harvoni?
Harvoni and Epclusa are both drugs called direct-acting antivirals and have similar effects in the body. Because of this, they cause many of the same side effects. Below are some examples of these side effects.
Can interferons be used for hepatitis C?
For these reasons, today interferons aren’t typically used to treat hepatitis C.
How often should I take harvoni?
No additional medicines are required for the majority of patients. HARVONI is one pill, taken once daily, with or without food . HARVONI plus ribavirin for 12 weeks is recommended for genotype 1 patients with advanced cirrhosis* or for genotype 1 or 4 patients who have had a liver transplant.
How to contact harvoni support?
Call HARVONI Support Path at 1-855-7-MYPATH(1-855-769-7284)and inform the Support Path navigator that you want to complete a benefits investigation. Provide the navigator with your name and address, the name and address of your prescribing doctor, your pharmacy benefit card, and your medical benefit card.
What is a harvoni?
HARVONI is a prescription medicine used to treat adults with chronic (lasting a long time) hepatitis C (Hep C) genotype (GT) 1, 4, 5 or 6 infection with or without cirrhosis (compensated).
What is the name of the medication used to treat hepatitis C?
Read below for answers to FAQs about hepatitis C and HARVONI. If you require further assistance, speak with a HARVONI Educator at 1-844-READY41(1-844-732-3941),or contact your Hep C Specialist. HARVONI is a prescription medicine used to treat adults with chronic (lasting a long time) hepatitis C (Hep C) genotype (GT) 1, 4, ...
How long does it take to get hep C?
Most patient types are recommended to receive 12 weeks of treatment, although 8 or 24 weeks may also be prescribed . In all cases, treatment depends on the specifics of your particular situation.
Can you take ribavirin with harvoni?
If you take HARVONI with ribavirin, you should also read the ribavirin Medication Guide for important pregnancy-related information. Take HARVONI exactly as your healthcare provider tells you to take it. HARVONI and certain other medicines may affect each other, or may cause side effects.
Can Harvoni be used with ribavirin?
In those with GT 1 and advanced cirrhosis (decompensated) or with GT 1 or 4 with or without cirrhosis (compensated) who have had a liver transplant , HARVONI is used with ribavirin. If you don't have Hep C genotype 1, 4, 5, or 6, learn about another treatment optionthat may be right for you.
How often should I take Harvoni?
Harvoni Dosing and Side Effects. Harvoni is given by mouth once daily with or without food. It's best to get in a routine and take it the same time every day. Don't change your dose or stop taking your medicine unless directed to do so by your doctor.
How many patients are treated with Harvoni?
Harvoni treatment results in hepatitis C cures in roughly 95% to 99% of patients (95 to 99 out of every 100 patients). Your treatment regimen and length will vary according to your liver condition and whether or not you have received prior treatments. Most patients who have never had treatment, and without liver disease, ...
What is Harvoni used for?
Harvoni prevents hepatitis C virus (HCV) from multiplying in the body. It is a single combination pill that is given by mouth once a day for 8, 12, or 24 weeks, depending upon your HCV status. Harvoni comes as:
How much does Harvoni cost?
Harvoni is now available as an authorized generic option for the higher strength tablet, but can still run over $10,000 per month for the cash price. Prices may vary and you can print discount coupons here. The brand name price is over $32,000 per month.
What is the treatment for chronic hepatitis C?
Many treatments for chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) -- the blood-borne infectious disease that can lead to: chronic liver disease. liver inflammation and scarring. liver cancer. eventual liver transplant. have been the focus of ongoing research.
How many genotypes are there for HCV?
There are six different genotype classifications for HCV, and at least 50 subtypes, based on the genetic material in the RNA. Generally, patients are only infected with one genotype, but genotypes can mutate quickly and become drug resistant.
Does Harvoni cause side effects?
Usually, the side effects that occur with Harvoni are mild, but can var y based on your treatment regimen. In clinical studies, only 1% (1 out of 100) or less of patients stopped treatment due to side effects. The most common side effects occurring in greater 10% of patients include: headache. fatigue.
How long does Harvoni last?
Harvoni is a single combination pill that is given by mouth once a day for 12 or 24 weeks, depending on the presence of compensated cirrhosis (Child-Pugh A). Harvoni is available as oral tablets or pellets which are more easily swallowed. Harvoni may be taken with or without food.
How long does it take to swallow Harvoni?
The mixture of foods and pellets should be swallowed whole within 30 minutes of mixing to avoid a bitter aftertaste. Do not store any leftover mixture. Harvoni is best taken at the same time every day. Follow your physician's advice with regards to the dosage of harvoni and do not miss or skip doses.
How long does hepatitis C last?
It may be used to treat certain genotypes of the hepatitis C virus in adults and children over the age of three. It is usually taken for 12 weeks, although longer courses may be required by some people and side effects are typically mild and may include fatigue, headache, nausea, diarrhea, and insomnia. 5.
What are the side effects of Harvoni?
If you are between the ages of 18 and 60, take no other medication or have no other medical conditions, side effects you are more likely to experience include: Most side effects that occur with Harvoni are mild but the most common ones reported were fatigue, headache, nausea, diarrhea, and insomnia.
What is Harvoni used for?
It may be used to treat certain genotypes of the hepatitis C virus in adults and children over the age of three.
Can you get pregnant with Harvoni?
If you are taking Harvoni with ribavirin, you should use adequate contraception to ensure you do not become pregnant. If you do become pregnant while taking Harvoni, see your doctor immediately.
Can you take amiodarone with Harvoni?
Some medications, such as amiodarone, should not be taken with Harvoni. Seek urgent medical attention if you develop a very slow heartbeat, feel faint or unwell, or experience symptoms such as dizziness or lightheadedness, weakness, excessive tiredness, shortness of breath, chest pains, confusion, or memory problems.
How long does Harvoni last?
Harvoni is a new medication for hepatitis C. It’s a single tablet taken once per day that contains two drugs: ledipasvir and sofosbuvir. When taken for 12 weeks, Harvoni cures most cases of hepatitis C.
Why do I feel tired when I take Harvoni?
If you feel tired while taking Harvoni, talk with your doctor about how you can increase your energy level. Some people have headaches when they take Harvoni. This side effect generally gets worse the longer you take the drug.
How long does it take for hepatitis C to cure?
Previous drug treatments for hepatitis C took longer and had lower cure rates. On average, treatment took two to four months with a cure rate of 50 to 80 percent. Harvoni cures 93 to 100 percent of patients in just 12 weeks. Harvoni causes few side effects compared with previous drugs.
How do you know if you're taking amiodarone?
These symptoms can include: feeling like you’re going to faint, or actually fainting. lightheadedness. tiredness. weakness. shortness of breath. chest pains. confusion or memory problems. If you have symptoms of bradycardia (even if you’re not taking amiodarone with Harvoni), call your doctor right away.
Is Harvoni safe for pregnant women?
Harvoni is a pregnancy Category B medication. This means there haven’t been enough studies done in pregnant women to confirm whether this drug is safe to use during pregnancy. Harvoni has been tested in pregnant lab animals (rats), but the results of those studies can’t always be applied to humans.
Can you take Harvoni if you have kidney disease?
If you have mild kidney disease, you should be able to take Harvoni without any problems. Your doctor will likely prescribe the normal dosage for you. But if you have severe kidney disease, your body may not be able to process the drug well. This could lead to increased amounts of the drug in your body, and increased risk of side effects.
Does Harvoni cause stomach problems?
Digestive system. Like many drugs, Harvoni can cause some stomach problems. A small number of patients have reported nausea and diarrhea while taking the drug. Like some other side effects, these tend to get a little worse the longer you take the drug.
