Harvoni vs. Epclusa for Hepatitis C: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

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)

Get free coupons

Epclusa

(sofosbuvir / velpatasvir)

Get free coupons

Summary for Harvoni

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.

Indications for Harvoni

Hepatitis C infection genotype 1, 4, 5, and 6

Pros and Cons for Harvoni

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

Common Side Effects for Harvoni

Headache (14%)
Fatigue or tiredness (13%)
Nausea (7%)

Warnings for Harvoni

HEPATITIS B REACTIVATION
SLOW HEART RATE
RIBAVIRIN RISKS

Summary for Epclusa

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 for Epclusa

Chronic hepatitis C infection

Pros and Cons for Epclusa

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