Key takeaways
Zepatier (elbasvir/grazoprevir) and Olysio (simeprevir) are both antiviral medications used to treat hepatitis C. However, they differ in several ways. Zepatier is a combination medication containing two antiviral agents, elbasvir and grazoprevir, and is FDA-approved for treating hepatitis C genotypes 1 and 4. It is taken as one tablet once a day and is still available by prescription. In contrast, Olysio (simeprevir) was used in combination with peginterferon and ribavirin, but it has been discontinued and is no longer available in the U.S. Zepatier can be used by people with kidney problems and usually has mild side effects like fatigue and headache. It also doesn't interact with stomach acid medications. On the other hand, Olysio required additional medications that had many side effects, which contributed to its discontinuation. Zepatier can interact with other medications, so it's important to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking.
