Products
Elbasvir was approved in many countries in 2016 as a fixed-dose combination with the protease inhibitor grazoprevir in film-coated tablet form (Zepatier).
Structure and properties
Elbasvir (C49H55N9O7, Mr = 882.0 g/mol)
Effects
Elbasvir (ATC J05AX68) has antiviral properties. The effects are due to binding to the viral protein NS5A (Non-Structural Protein 5A). Unlike other HCV antiviral drugs, this is not an enzyme but a phosphoprotein that plays a role in RNA replication and assembly. Elbasvir has a long half-life of 24 hours.
Indications
For the treatment of chronic hepatitis C (genotype 1 or 4). Treatment duration is 12 or 16 weeks.
Dosage
According to the SmPC. Tablets are taken once daily, independent of meals.
Contraindications
For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Interactions
Elbasvir is a substrate of CYP3A4 and P-glycoprotein.
Adverse effects
The most common potential adverse effects of the fixed combination include fatigue, headache, and nausea.
