Harvoni
Harvoni Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Harvoni is a brand name. Its generic name is Ledipasvir + Sofosbuvir.
Introduction
Harvoni, also known as the hepatitis C virus (HCV)protective regimen, is an oral combination treatment for chronic HCV viral infections. It is a fixed-dose combination of the direct-acting antiviral medications ledipasvir (90 mg) and sofosbuvir (400 mg). It interferes with the processes used by HCV to duplicate its genetic material, preventing the virus from multiplying and causing infection.Uses for
Harvoni is used in the treatment of chronic hepatitis C in adult patients with or without compensated cirrhosis, including those with a high viral load or liver problems caused by HCV infection. It is indicated for all genotypes (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6).Mechanism of action
Harvoni works to inhibit the replication of HCV by blocking the enzymes necessary for virus replication. The combination of these two drugs is used to prevent the virus from making copies of itself, stopping it from spreading. Ledipasvir blocks a protein called NS5A, which is necessary for viral replication, while sofosbuvir blocks the enzyme called RNA-dependent RNA polymerase, which is necessary for the production of new viral RNA strands. By blocking these two proteins, the virus is unable to replicate and the infection is cleared.How long does it take to work?
The time it takes for Harvoni to work varies, depending on the individual, as well as on the severity of the HCV infection. For most people, the medication will start working in 3-4 weeks, with a maximum effect seen after 12 weeksAbsorption
Harvoni is rapidly absorbed following oral administration. Both components of Harvoni reach peak concentrations in the plasma within 1-2 hours of administration.Route of Elimination
The components of Harvoni are both primarily eliminated through the bile into the feces. Urine contributes to the elimination of only a small fraction of each drug.Dosage
The recommended dosage of Harvoni is one tablet orally once daily with or without food. Treatment should continue for 12 weeks, depending on the patient's clinical response.Administration
Harvoni should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. It can be taken with or without food. Swallow the tablets whole, do not crush, chew, or break the tablets.Side effects
The most commonly reported side effects of Harvoni include nausea, headache, tiredness, and insomnia. Rarely, more serious side effects can occur such as severe skin reactions or liver damage.Toxicity
Harvoni is generally well tolerated, however, overdose can occur and can lead to serious adverse events. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, fatigue, and abdominal discomfort.Precaution
Patients with hepatic impairment, or any other chronic illness should use Harvoni with caution. It should not be used in combination with any other antiviral medications or drugs, including those used to treat HIV/AIDS. Before using Harvoni, please tell your doctor if you have had any liver problems in the past or if you are taking any other medications.Interactions
Harvoni can interact with other medications. It is important to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking, including any over-the-counter drugs or herbal supplements. The risk of interactions increases if you are also taking medications such as HIV/AIDS drugs, anticonvulsants, antibiotics, and immunosuppressants.Disease Interactions
Patients with cirrhosis, hepatic impairment, or hepatocellular carcinoma should use Harvoni with caution, as the drug is not recommended for patients with these conditions.Drug Interactions
Harvoni can interact with a variety of other drugs. It is important to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking so that interactions can be ruled out. Examples of drugs that can interact with Harvoni include HIV/AIDS drugs, anticonvulsants, antibiotics, immunosuppressants, anti-fungal drugs, and drugs used to treat cancer.Food Interactions
Food does not affect the absorption of Harvoni. Therefore, patients may take it with or without food.Pregnancy Use
Leadipasvir + Sofosbuvir should not be used during pregnancy as it may have adverse effects on the fetus.Lactation Use
It is not known whether Harvoni is excreted in human milk. Therefore, women who are breastfeeding should not use this medication.Acute Overdose
In cases of acute overdose of Harvoni, it is important to seek medical attention. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and abdominal discomfort.Contraindications
Patients with severe liver disease should not use Harvoni. It should also not be used in combination with other antiviral medications, including those used to treat HIV/AIDS.Use Direction
Harvoni should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. It should be taken orally once daily with or without food. Treatment should continue for 12 weeks, depending on the patient’s clinical response. Do not take more or less of the medication than directed.Storage Condition
Harvoni should be stored at room temperature (15°C to 30°C). Keep the tablets in their original container, away from light and moisture.Volume of Distribution
The volume of distribution of Harvoni is approximately 0.88-0.9 L/kg.Half Life
The half-life of Harvoni is approximately 5-6 hours.Clearance
The clearance of Harvoni is approximately 0.93 L/h/kg.Here you find in details version of Harvoni