DACLAHEP 60 TABLET

🧬💊🛡️ Daclatasvir 60mg Tablet: Targeted Antiviral Therapy for Hepatitis C Virus (HCV)

Daclatasvir 60mg is an oral direct-acting antiviral (DAA) medication used in the treatment of chronic Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. It is especially effective when used in combination with other antivirals such as Sofosbuvir. Approved for adults and adolescents, Daclatasvir offers a high cure rate, improved tolerability, and a shorter duration of treatment compared to older interferon-based therapies.

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🔬 Mechanism of Action

Daclatasvir is a HCV NS5A inhibitor. NS5A is a viral protein essential for HCV replication, assembly, and secretion.

• Daclatasvir blocks the replication of HCV by inhibiting NS5A at multiple steps in the viral lifecycle.

• It acts across multiple HCV genotypes, especially genotypes 1, 3, and 4.

• It works best in combination therapy, especially with Sofosbuvir (a NS5B polymerase inhibitor), forming a powerful dual antiviral strategy.

This interferon-free regimen represents a major advancement in HCV therapy with high sustained virologic response (SVR) rates, meaning the virus becomes undetectable in the blood after treatment and does not return.

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📌 Indications and Uses

Daclatasvir 60mg is approved for:

• Chronic HCV infection in adults and adolescents (≥12 years)

• Genotypes 1, 3, and 4 (in combination with Sofosbuvir ± Ribavirin)

• Suitable for patients:

  • With or without compensated cirrhosis

  • Who are treatment-naïve or treatment-experienced

  • Co-infected with HIV

It is not used as monotherapy—must always be combined with other antivirals.

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💊 Dosage and Administration

• Typical dose: 60mg once daily orally, with or without food

• Duration: 12 to 24 weeks depending on:

  • HCV genotype

  • Presence of cirrhosis

  • Prior treatment history

• Must be used in combination (e.g., Daclatasvir + Sofosbuvir ± Ribavirin)

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⚠️ Precautions and Warnings

• Not recommended in severe hepatic impairment

• Dose adjustment may be required if used with CYP3A4 inducers/inhibitors

• Avoid in pregnancy if used with Ribavirin due to risk of fetal harm

• Monitor liver function and HCV RNA levels during therapy

• Patients should be tested for HBV (Hepatitis B) due to risk of reactivation

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🤒 Side Effects

Most common (especially when used with other antivirals):

• Headache

• Fatigue

• Nausea

• Diarrhea

• Anemia (when used with Ribavirin)

Less common:

• Insomnia

• Rash

• Elevated liver enzymes

Generally, it is well tolerated and has fewer side effects than traditional interferon therapies.

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🔄 Drug Interactions

• Metabolized by CYP3A4—avoid strong inducers (e.g., rifampicin, phenytoin)

• Can be used safely with Tenofovir, Efavirenz, Atazanavir, and other HIV drugs with dose adjustments

• Consult healthcare provider for full medication review

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🧊 Storage Instructions

• Store at 15–30°C, away from moisture and light

• Keep in original packaging and out of reach of children

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📝 Conclusion

Daclatasvir 60mg is a potent, targeted antiviral designed to fight chronic HCV infection effectively. When paired with other DAAs like Sofosbuvir, it achieves high cure rates, minimal side effects, and a simpler, shorter treatment course. This makes it a cornerstone in the modern, interferon-free era of Hepatitis C therapy, bringing hope to millions worldwide.

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Always follow your doctor’s advice, dosage instructions, and never self-medicate.