Glecaprevir + Pibrentasvir
Chronic Hepatitis C
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
YES
Known Teratogen
No
Pharmaceutical Class
Hepatitis C Virus NS5A Inhibitor
Controlled Drug Substance
No
Summary
Glecaprevir and pibrentasvir are used to treat chronic hepatitis C, which is a long-term viral infection affecting the liver. This combination is effective against multiple genotypes of the virus, making it suitable for a wide range of patients. The treatment aims to clear the virus from the body, reduce liver damage, and prevent complications such as liver cirrhosis, which is scarring of the liver, and liver cancer.
Glecaprevir, a protease inhibitor, blocks an enzyme the virus needs to multiply. Pibrentasvir, an NS5A inhibitor, prevents the virus from assembling and replicating. Together, they stop the virus from multiplying and help the body clear the infection. This combination approach is effective against multiple genotypes of the virus, making it a versatile treatment option for hepatitis C.
The usual adult daily dose for the combination of glecaprevir and pibrentasvir is three tablets taken once a day. Each tablet contains a fixed amount of both medicines, designed to work together to treat hepatitis C. It's important to take the medication exactly as prescribed by a healthcare provider to ensure its effectiveness. Both medicines are combined in a single tablet to simplify the dosing regimen and improve adherence to the treatment plan.
The most common side effects of glecaprevir and pibrentasvir include fatigue, headache, and nausea. These effects are generally mild and tend to improve as the body adjusts to the medication. In rare cases, more significant adverse effects like liver problems can occur, especially in patients with pre-existing liver conditions. Both medicines share these side effects due to their action on the liver and the body's response to clearing the virus.
Glecaprevir and pibrentasvir should not be used in patients with severe liver impairment, as this can worsen their condition. Patients with a history of hepatitis B should be monitored closely, as the virus can reactivate during treatment. Both medicines can interact with other drugs, so it's important to inform healthcare providers about all medications being taken. Regular monitoring of liver function is recommended to ensure safety during treatment.
Indications and Purpose
How does combination of Glecaprevir and Pibrentasvir work?
The combination of Glecaprevir and Pibrentasvir is used to treat hepatitis C, a viral infection that affects the liver. Glecaprevir and Pibrentasvir work together to stop the hepatitis C virus from multiplying in the body. Glecaprevir is a type of drug known as a protease inhibitor. It blocks a protein that the virus needs to replicate. Pibrentasvir is an NS5A inhibitor, which interferes with another protein that the virus uses to reproduce. By targeting different parts of the virus's life cycle, these drugs help to clear the infection from the body. This combination is taken as a pill and is usually part of a treatment plan that lasts several weeks, depending on the specific type of hepatitis C virus and the patient's health condition. It is important to follow the healthcare provider's instructions to ensure the best chance of curing the infection.
How effective is combination of Glecaprevir and Pibrentasvir?
The combination of Glecaprevir and Pibrentasvir is highly effective in treating hepatitis C, a viral infection that affects the liver. According to the NHS, this combination can cure the infection in most people, with cure rates often exceeding 95%. This means that the virus is no longer detectable in the blood after treatment. The treatment duration is usually 8 to 12 weeks, depending on the specific type of hepatitis C virus and the patient's medical history. It's important to follow the prescribed treatment plan to achieve the best results.
Directions for Use
What is the usual dose of combination of Glecaprevir and Pibrentasvir?
The usual dose of the combination of Glecaprevir and Pibrentasvir is three tablets taken once daily with food. Each tablet contains 100 mg of Glecaprevir and 40 mg of Pibrentasvir. This combination is used to treat hepatitis C, a viral infection that affects the liver.
How does one take combination of Glecaprevir and Pibrentasvir?
Glecaprevir and Pibrentasvir are taken together as a single oral medication. It is usually prescribed to be taken once daily with food. This combination is used to treat chronic hepatitis C virus infection. It's important to follow the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare provider and not to miss any doses to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment. If you have any questions or concerns about taking this medication, consult your healthcare provider for guidance.
For how long is combination of Glecaprevir and Pibrentasvir taken?
The combination of Glecaprevir and Pibrentasvir is typically taken for a duration of 8 to 12 weeks, depending on the specific type of hepatitis C virus infection and the patient's medical history. This treatment duration is designed to effectively clear the virus from the body. It's important to follow the healthcare provider's instructions and complete the full course of treatment to ensure the best outcome.
How long does it take for combination of Glecaprevir and Pibrentasvir to work?
The combination of Glecaprevir and Pibrentasvir is used to treat hepatitis C, a viral infection that affects the liver. According to the NHS, the treatment duration typically ranges from 8 to 12 weeks, depending on the specific type of hepatitis C virus and the patient's medical history. During this period, the medication works to clear the virus from the body. It's important to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed by a healthcare provider to ensure the best chance of curing the infection.
Warnings and Precautions
Are there harms and risks from taking combination of Glecaprevir and Pibrentasvir?
Glecaprevir and Pibrentasvir are medications used together to treat hepatitis C, a viral infection that affects the liver. While they are effective in treating this condition, there are some potential side effects and risks associated with their use. Common side effects include tiredness, headache, and nausea. These are generally mild and tend to improve as your body adjusts to the medication. More serious risks can include liver problems, especially if you have a history of liver disease. It's important to have regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor your liver function during treatment. Additionally, these medications can interact with other drugs, so it's crucial to inform your doctor about any other medications or supplements you are taking. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions and report any unusual symptoms or concerns you may have during treatment.
Can I take combination of Glecaprevir and Pibrentasvir with other prescription drugs?
Glecaprevir and Pibrentasvir are used together to treat hepatitis C. It's important to be cautious when taking them with other prescription drugs because they can interact with certain medications. According to the NHS and NLM, some drugs can affect how well Glecaprevir and Pibrentasvir work or increase the risk of side effects. For example, they should not be taken with certain cholesterol-lowering drugs, some anticonvulsants, or certain antibiotics. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting any new medication to ensure it's safe to use with Glecaprevir and Pibrentasvir.
Can I take combination of Glecaprevir and Pibrentasvir if I am pregnant?
It is generally not recommended to take the combination of Glecaprevir and Pibrentasvir during pregnancy. According to the NHS and other medical sources, there is limited information on the safety of these medications for pregnant women. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider to discuss potential risks and benefits before taking any medication during pregnancy.
Can I take combination of Glecaprevir and Pibrentasvir while breastfeeding?
According to the NHS and other trusted sources, there is limited information on the safety of taking Glecaprevir and Pibrentasvir while breastfeeding. These medications are used to treat hepatitis C, and their effects on a breastfeeding infant are not well-studied. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional to weigh the potential benefits and risks before using these medications while breastfeeding. They can provide guidance based on your specific health needs and the health of your baby.
Who should avoid taking combination of Glecaprevir and Pibrentasvir?
People with severe liver problems should avoid taking the combination of Glecaprevir and Pibrentasvir. This includes those with decompensated cirrhosis, which is a condition where the liver is severely damaged and cannot function properly. Additionally, individuals who are allergic to either of these medications or any of their ingredients should not take them. It's important to consult a healthcare provider for a full assessment before starting this treatment.
