Velpanat is a fixed-dose combination tablet containing sofosbuvir and velpatasvir, two potent direct-acting antiviral agents used in the treatment of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. It is considered a pan-genotypic regimen, meaning it is effective against all major genotypes of HCV. Velpanat simplifies treatment by offering a once-daily oral solution that can help cure hepatitis C in most patients within a twelve-week course.

Mechanism of Action
Velpanat works by targeting two different proteins essential for the hepatitis C virus to replicate and spread:

• Sofosbuvir is a nucleotide analogue inhibitor of the HCV NS5B RNA-dependent RNA polymerase. Once inside the body, it is converted into an active form that gets incorporated into the viral RNA, halting further replication by causing chain termination.

• Velpatasvir is an inhibitor of the HCV NS5A protein, which plays a key role in both viral RNA replication and assembly of new virus particles. By blocking NS5A, it disrupts multiple steps in the viral life cycle.

  Uses
  Velpanat is indicated for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C infection in adults, regardless of HCV genotype.
  It is effective in patients:

  • Without cirrhosis

  • With compensated cirrhosis

  • With decompensated cirrhosis (in combination with other agents, if needed)

  • Adverse Effects
    Velpanat is generally well tolerated, but like any medication, it may cause some side effects.
    Common side effects include headache, fatigue, nausea, and sleep disturbances. These symptoms are usually mild and resolve on their own.
    In some cases, patients may report diarrhea, irritability, or mild skin reactions.
    If used in combination with other medicines like ribavirin, side effects such as anemia or mood changes may become more noticeable.