Key takeaways
Epclusa (sofosbuvir/velpatasvir) and ribavirin (Rebetol) are both antiviral medications used to treat chronic hepatitis C, but they have some key differences. Epclusa is a combination of two antiviral drugs and is effective against all six types of hepatitis C, while ribavirin is usually used with other antivirals and is not effective on its own. Epclusa is typically taken once a day, whereas ribavirin must be taken twice a day with food. Ribavirin has a generic form available, which can make it more affordable. However, ribavirin has more severe side effects, such as anemia and potential harm to an unborn baby, and requires regular blood tests. Epclusa, on the other hand, has milder common side effects like headache and fatigue but can interact with many other medications.
