What is Harvoni?
Harvoni is a combination of ledipasvir andLedipasvir is an antiviral medication that prevents hepatitis C (HCV) from multiplying within your body.Harvoni treats chronic hepatitis C among adults and children older than 3 years. Harvoni can be given with another medication called ribavirin.Harvoni only treats certain genotypes and people with hepatitis C. Only take the medication prescribed to you. Don't share your medication with anyone else.Harvoni can be used by people with HIV. This medication does not treat HIV or AIDS directly.
Side effects of Harvoni
If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of your lips, face, tongue, or throat, contact emergency medical assistance.
If you experience new or worsening signs and symptoms, such as:
- Right-sided upper abdominal pain
- Nausea; loss of appetite
- Jaundice (yellowing skin or eyes) and feeling unwell.
Harvoni, combined with amiodarone, a medicine for heart rhythm, can have dangerous side effects. If you are taking these medications and have:
- Shortness of breath, chest pain, and very slow heartbeats
- Memory problems or confusion
- Feeling weak, tired, or light-headed (like you could pass out)
Harvoni may cause side effects such as:
- Weakness;
- Headache
- Tired feeling
There may be other side effects. For medical advice regarding side effects, call your physician. To report side effects directly, the FDA can be reached at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Warnings
Harvoni can make hepatitis B worse or more active if you have ever had it. For several months, you may require frequent liver function testing.Harvoni can be used in conjunction with other medications. Be sure to read the instructions or medication guide that comes with each drug in your combination therapy. Don't change your dosage or schedule without consulting your doctor.
Before you take this drug
Harvoni should not be used if you have an allergy to ledipasvir, sofosbuvir, or any other component of the drug. You should not use Harvoni in combination with ribavirin if you are allergic to either. Inform your doctor of all medical conditions.
Tell your doctor about any of the following to ensure that Harvoni will be safe for you:
- Hepatitis B: (You may be tested before taking sofosbuvir);
- Other liver diseases other than hepatitis, including a transplant;
- Kidney disease (or dialysis if you have it);
- HIV or AIDS
- A heart rhythm disorder for which you are taking a medicine named amiodarone
- If you are taking a blood thinner (warfarin Coumadin Jantoven) and have routine "INR", or prothrombin-time tests,
Harvoni can be used with ribavirin. Ribavirin is used by both men and women to prevent pregnancy.Use effective birth control, whether you're a man, woman, or both, while taking ledipasvir, sofosbuvir, and ribavirin.Continue to use birth control at least six months after you have taken your last dose. If you become pregnant while taking ribavirin, either as a mother or father, tell your doctor immediately.Breastfeeding may not be possible while taking this medication. You should ask your doctor if there are any risks.Harvoni should not be used by children under 3 years of age.
Similar/related drugs
Epclusa, Vosevi, Sovaldi, Mavyret, sofosbuvir, velpatasvir, and ribavirin
How to take Harvoni?
Follow the directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instructions sheets. Read all instructions listed on your prescription label carefullyHarvoni can be taken either with or without food. Take Harvoni at approximately the same time each day at a consistent time of day.Please follow all directions included with your medication. If there is anything unclear to you, consult your physician or pharmacist immediately for assistance.The oral pellets should not be chewed. You can mix the oral pellets into a soft, non-acidic food at room temperature (puddings, chocolate syrups, mashed potatoes, ice cream) to take along with your food. Do not chew the mixture for more than 30 minutes after mixing. The mixture should not be saved for future use.The doses of ledipasvir or sofosbuvir are determined by weight, especially in children and adolescents. Your dose needs may change if you gain or lose weight.Your liver will require frequent blood tests.This virus can become active while taking this medication or even worsen in the months following your last dose. After your last dose, you may still need to have liver function tests.
Do not stop taking Harvoni abruptly. This could make it harder for you to get the antiviral treatment that is needed for hepatitis C.You should always follow the instructions on your medication, and be sure to read any medication guides that you may receive. Do not alter your dosage or schedule without consulting your doctor. Everyone with chronic hepatitis should be under the care and supervision of a physician.Store this medication at room temperature, away from heat and moisture. Open the packet of pellets only when you are ready for the medicine.
What happens if I miss the dose?
If you are almost due for your next dose, skip the missed one. Never take two doses of the same medicine at once.Refill your prescription before you run out.
What happens if I overdose?
Call 1-800-222-1222 immediately if you suspect poisoning. Additionally, seek immediate medical treatment from qualified personnel.
What should be avoided?
Consult your doctor before taking any antacids or medicines that reduce stomach acid. Only use the amount and type of medicine that your doctor has prescribed.This medicine does not stop the spread of your illness. Share razors and toothbrushes. Do not engage in unprotected sexual activity. Speak to your doctor about the best ways to avoid hepatitis C during sex. Even healthy people should never share drug or medicine syringes.
Interaction with other drug
Your doctor may adjust your doses for any regular medicines that you take when you begin or stop taking Harvoni.If you are also taking an antacid, wait at least 4 hours before taking ledipasvir or sofosbuvir.If you are also taking a stomach acid reducer, you may need to wait up to 12 hours before you can take ledipasvir or sofosbuvir. Cimetidine is included, as are famotidine, nizatidine, ranitidine, Axid Pepcid, Tagamet Zantac, and other medications.Consult your doctor or pharmacist prior to taking other acid-reducing medications such as esomeprazole (lansoprazole), omeprazole (omeprazole), pantoprazole (pantoprazole), Nexium, Prevacid, Prilosec, Protonix, and others.There are many drugs that can interact with sofosbuvir and ledipasvir. These include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. This list does not include all possible interactions. Inform your doctor of all medications you are currently taking and those that you will stop or start using.
