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Compare Zepatier vs. Viekira Pak

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

Key takeaways

Zepatier (elbasvir/grazoprevir) and Viekira Pak (dasabuvir/ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir) are both antiviral combination medications used to treat hepatitis C. However, they differ in several ways. Zepatier is specifically approved for hepatitis C genotypes 1 and 4, while Viekira Pak is only approved for genotype 1. Zepatier is taken as one tablet once a day, whereas Viekira Pak requires taking four tablets daily and must be taken with food. Common Zepatier side effects include fatigue and headache, while Viekira Pak can cause nausea, itching, and rash. Additionally, Viekira Pak contains ritonavir, which can interact with many other medications. Both medications require testing for hepatitis B before starting treatment due to the risk of reactivation.

  • Zepatier (elbasvir / grazoprevir)
    Viekira pak
  • Zepatier (elbasvir / grazoprevir)
    Viekira pak

  • Summary of Zepatier vs. Viekira Pak

    Summary for Antiviral Combo
    Prescription only

    Zepatier (elbasvir / grazoprevir) is a combination medication containing two antiviral medications, elbasvir and grazoprevir. It's one of the first choice treatment options for hepatitis C genotypes 1 and 4.

    Summary for Antiviral Combo
    Prescription only

    Viekira Pak is a combination medication containing 3 antiviral medications, ombitasvir, paritaprevir, and dasabuvir and a booster medication, ritonavir. It's a treatment option for hepatitis C type 1.

  • Indications of Zepatier vs. Viekira Pak

    Indications for
    •Hepatitis C infection genotype 1 and 4
    Indications for
    •Hepatitis C infection genotype 1

  • Pros and Cons of Zepatier vs. Viekira Pak

    Pros and Const for Antiviral Combo
    Pros
    •1 tablet once a day is a full regimen for some people and can cure hepatitis C
    •Doesn't interact with stomach acid medications like Epclusa and Harvoni
    •Can be taken by people with kidney problems, even those on hemodialysis
    •Usually has mild side effects
    •Good option for people taking amiodarone, since it doesn't contain sofosbuvir which can cause slow heartbeat
    Cons
    •Doesn't treat all the types of hepatitis C like other antiviral combos such as Epclusa or Mavyret
    •People with hepatitis C type 1 need to have resistance testing before starting therapy
    •Can't be used in people with cirrhosis or moderate to severe liver problems
    •Some people who have hepatitis B and C have had their hepatitis B come back after taking hepatitis C treatment
    •Some people need to take Zepatier (elbasvir / grazoprevir) with an antiviral medication called ribavirin, which can have a lot of side effects
    Pros and Const for Antiviral Combo
    Pros
    •Works well to cure hepatitis C
    •Comes in easy to follow dose packaging
    •Not too many side effects; most common include nausea, tiredness, itching, and rash
    •Treatment length can be as short as 12 weeks
    •Can be used in people who have received a liver transplant
    Cons
    •Only works for genotype 1
    •Some people with severe liver problems may need to take another antiviral medication called ribavirin
    •Requires 4 tablets a day, where other regimens can be as few as 1 tablet
    •Contains a booster medication called ritonavir (Norvir), which interacts with a lot of medications
    •Can't be taken with birth control that contains ethynyl estradiol

  • Common Side Effects of Zepatier vs. Viekira Pak

    Common Side Effects for
    •Fatigue (11%)
    •Headache (10%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Fatigue (34%)
    •Nausea (22%)
    •Itching (18%)
    •Rash (16%)
    •Insomnia (4%)
    •Weakness (14%)

  • Warnings of Zepatier vs. Viekira Pak

    Common Side Effects for
    •HEPATITIS B REACTIVATION
    •CHANGE IN LIVER TESTS
    •RIBAVIRIN RISKS
    •MEDICATION INTERACTIONS
    Common Side Effects for
    •HEPATITIS B REACTIVATION
    •SERIOUS LIVER PROBLEMS
    •HIGH LIVER BLOOD TESTS
    •RIBAVIRIN RISKS
    •DRUG INTERACTIONS

  • Prices with our coupons for Zepatier vs. Viekira Pak

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    Learn more about Viekira pak

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