What is simeprevir, and how does it work (mechanism of action)?
Simeprevir is an oral, direct-acting an-tiviral agent used for treating infections with the hepatitis C virus (HCV).
Boceprevir (Victrelis), telaprevir (Incivek), and
sofosbuvir (Sovaldi) are other direct-acting drugs for treating HCV. Simeprevir blocks the effect of pro-teases which are enzymes that HCV needs for making new viruses, leading to reduced numbers of HCV in the body. Simeprevir is effective for treating people infected with HCV genotype 1, including those with
liver disease. The FDA approved simeprevir in November 2013.
What brand names are available for simeprevir?
Olysio
Is simeprevir available as a generic drug?
GENERIC AVAILABLE: No
Do I need a prescription for simeprevir?
Yes
What are the side effects of simeprevir?
The most common side effects associated with simeprevir treatment are:
- rash,
- itching,
- sun sensitivity,
- muscle pain,
- shortness of breath, and
- nausea.
What is the dosage for simeprevir?
The recommended dose of simeprevir is one 150 mg capsule once daily with food for 12 weeks in combination with peginter-feron and ribavarin. It should
be followed by 12 or 36 additional weeks of peginterferon and ribavirin depending on prior response. It can also be combined with sofosbuvir (Sovaldi) for 12 weeks.
Is simeprevir safe to take if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
It is not known if simeprevir is secreted into
breast milk.
What else should I know about simeprevir?
What preparations of simeprevir are available?
Capsules: 150 mg
How should I keep simeprevir stored?
Capsules should be stored at room temperature below 30 C (86 F).