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Compare Harvoni vs. Epclusa

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Harvoni (ledipasvir/sofosbuvir) and Epclusa (sofosbuvir/velpatasvir) are both antiviral medications used to treat hepatitis C. Harvoni is effective for hepatitis C genotypes 1, 4, 5, and 6, while Epclusa works for all six genotypes. Harvoni can sometimes cure hepatitis C in just 8 weeks for certain people, whereas the shortest course for Epclusa is 12 weeks. Both are available in generic forms. Both medications can interact with other drugs, especially those for heartburn and HIV, and neither should be taken with amiodarone due to the risk of slow heart rate. Common side effects for both include headache and fatigue, but Harvoni can also cause nausea, while Epclusa may cause skin rash and weakness.

  • Harvoni (ledipasvir / sofosbuvir)
    Epclusa (sofosbuvir / velpatasvir)
  • Harvoni (ledipasvir / sofosbuvir)
    Epclusa (sofosbuvir / velpatasvir)

  • Summary of Harvoni vs. Epclusa

    Summary for Antiviral Combo
    Prescription only

    Harvoni (ledipasvir / sofosbuvir) is a combination medication containing two antiviral medications, ledipasvir and sofosbuvir (Sovaldi). It is a first-choice treatment option for hepatitis C for certain types of people.

    Summary for Antiviral
    Prescription only

    Epclusa (sofosbuvir / velpatasvir) is a combination medication containing two antiviral medications, sofosbuvir and velpatasvir, that's used to treat chronic hepatitis C in adults and children.

  • Indications of Harvoni vs. Epclusa

    Indications for
    •Hepatitis C infection genotype 1, 4, 5, and 6
    Indications for
    •Chronic hepatitis C infection

  • Pros and Cons of Harvoni vs. Epclusa

    Pros and Const for Antiviral Combo
    Pros
    •Taking the medication for 6 months or less is very effective against hepatitis C
    •Few side effects; most common are stomachache, tiredness, and headache
    •Can be used in children age 3 years or older
    •Available as a generic, which can be more affordable
    •Available as an oral pellet for people who can't swallow the tablet or need their dose lowered
    Cons
    •Heartburn and stomach acid-lowering medications can lower the amount of Harvoni (ledipasvir / sofosbuvir) in your body
    •Not a good option for people taking amiodarone, because the combination can cause slow heart rate
    •Doesn't treat all the types of hepatitis C like other antiviral combos, such as Epclusa or Mavyret
    •Interacts with some HIV antiretroviral medications
    •Some people who have hepatitis B and C have had their hepatitis B come back after taking hepatitis C treatment
    Pros and Const for Antiviral
    Pros
    •Treats all 6 types of hepatitis C
    •Most people only have to take one pill once a day for 12 weeks
    •Can be taken with or without food
    •Most common side effects are usually mild, such as fatigue and headache
    Cons
    •Interacts with many medications including those used for heartburn
    •Not a good option for people taking amiodarone (Pacerone) because the combination can cause slow heart rate
    •Some people with severe liver problems who have chronic hepatitis C may need to take it with another antiviral medication called ribavirin
    •Can reactivate the hepatitis B virus if you have a history of hepatitis B infection

  • Common Side Effects of Harvoni vs. Epclusa

    Common Side Effects for
    •Headache (14%)
    •Fatigue or tiredness (13%)
    •Nausea (7%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Headache
    •Fatigue

  • Warnings of Harvoni vs. Epclusa

    Common Side Effects for
    •HEPATITIS B REACTIVATION
    •SLOW HEART RATE
    •RIBAVIRIN RISKS
    Common Side Effects for
    •Hepatitis B reactivation
    •Slow heart rate
    •Ribavirin risks
    •Interactions with other medications

  • Prices with our coupons for Harvoni vs. Epclusa

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    Learn more about Epclusa

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