Why is this medication prescribed?

Mavyret is a prescription medication used to treat chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in adults and children who are at least 12 years old and weigh at least 99 pounds (45 kilograms). It is a combination of two antiviral drugs: glecaprevir and pibrentasvir. This medication is typically prescribed by healthcare professionals to help eliminate the HCV virus from the body and prevent liver damage that can result from a chronic HCV infection.

How should this medicine be used?

Here are some general guidelines for how Mavyret should be used, but it’s essential to follow your healthcare provider’s specific instructions:

• Dosage: Mavyret is usually taken orally, as a tablet. The recommended dosage may vary depending on factors such as the specific HCV genotype and the presence of liver cirrhosis. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dosage for your condition.
• Treatment Duration: The duration of treatment with Mavyret can also vary. It is typically taken for 8, 12, or 16 weeks, depending on factors like HCV genotype and previous treatment history. Your healthcare provider will decide the appropriate treatment duration for you.
• Administration: Mavyret can be taken with or without food. It’s important to take the medication exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not skip doses or stop taking it prematurely, even if you start feeling better before completing the full course of treatment.
• Follow-up: It’s crucial to follow up with your healthcare provider during and after treatment to monitor your progress and check for any potential side effects or complications. They may order regular blood tests to assess your liver function and the effectiveness of the treatment.
• Special Instructions: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at once to make up for a missed dose.
• Precautions: Inform your healthcare provider about any other medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking, as Mavyret can interact with some drugs. It’s essential to provide a complete medical history to your healthcare provider to ensure the safe and effective use of Mavyret.
• Side Effects: Like all medications, Mavyret can have side effects. Common side effects may include headache, fatigue, and nausea. However, everyone may react differently to the medication, so discuss any unusual or severe side effects with your healthcare provider.

Always consult with your healthcare provider for specific instructions and guidance regarding the use of Mavyret. They will tailor your treatment plan to your individual medical needs and circumstances.

Other uses for this medicine

Mavyret (glecaprevir and pibrentasvir) is primarily used to treat chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in adults and children who meet specific weight and age criteria. It is not typically used for other medical conditions. The medication’s primary function is to target and eliminate the HCV virus from the body. Using Mavyret for any other purpose should only be done under the guidance and supervision of a healthcare provider for off-label use, if deemed appropriate.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions for Mavyret:

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, inform your healthcare provider before starting Mavyret. The safety of Mavyret during pregnancy or breastfeeding is not well-established, and your healthcare provider will need to weigh the potential benefits and risks.
• Liver Function: It is essential to have your liver function monitored before and during Mavyret treatment, especially if you have advanced liver disease or cirrhosis. Your healthcare provider will assess your liver function through blood tests.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, as Mavyret can interact with certain drugs. Some medications may need to be adjusted or discontinued during Mavyret treatment to prevent adverse interactions.
• Allergic Reactions: If you have a known allergy to any of the components of Mavyret, notify your healthcare provider immediately. Allergic reactions can be serious and require prompt medical attention.
• Kidney Function: If you have kidney problems, discuss them with your healthcare provider. Mavyret’s dosage may need to be adjusted based on your kidney function.
• Risk of Reinfection: After successfully treating HCV with Mavyret, you can still be reinfected with the virus if you engage in high-risk behaviors like sharing needles or having unprotected sex with an HCV-infected partner. Practicing safe behaviors to prevent reinfection is essential.
• Adherence: Take Mavyret exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Skipping doses or stopping treatment prematurely can reduce its effectiveness and may lead to treatment failure.
• Side Effects: Be aware of potential side effects of Mavyret, which can include headache, fatigue, and nausea. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects, inform your healthcare provider.
• Regular Follow-up: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your progress and ensure that the treatment is working as intended.
• Contraception: If you are of childbearing age and sexually active, discuss contraception options with your healthcare provider, as Mavyret can potentially harm an unborn baby.

It’s crucial to communicate openly and honestly with your healthcare provider about your medical history, current medications, and any concerns or questions you may have regarding Mavyret. They can provide personalized guidance and ensure that the medication is used safely and effectively for your specific situation.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Special Dietary Instructions:

• Mavyret can generally be taken with or without food. You can take it with a meal if it helps reduce any potential stomach upset.
• Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice while taking Mavyret, as they can interact with the medication and affect its absorption.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• If you miss a dose of Mavyret, take it as soon as you remember, but do not take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed dose.
• If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
• If you have questions or concerns about missed doses, contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Mavyret (glecaprevir and pibrentasvir) can cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them, and their severity can vary from person to person. Common side effects of Mavyret may include:

• Headache
• Fatigue (tiredness)
• Nausea
• Itchy skin (pruritus)
• Feeling weak or lacking energy
• Difficulty sleeping (insomnia)
• Irritability
• Decreased appetite
• Dizziness

These side effects are generally mild to moderate in intensity and often improve as your body adjusts to the medication. It’s important to continue taking Mavyret as prescribed, even if you experience these side effects, unless directed otherwise by your healthcare provider.

Less common but potentially more serious side effects of Mavyret may include:

• Allergic Reactions: Although rare, some people may experience allergic reactions to Mavyret. Seek immediate medical attention if you notice symptoms such as hives, rash, itching, swelling of the face or throat, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
• Liver Problems: In some cases, Mavyret can cause liver enzyme elevations. Your healthcare provider will monitor your liver function with blood tests before and during treatment.
• Risk of Hepatitis B Reactivation: If you have a current or previous hepatitis B infection, Mavyret may lead to the reactivation of the hepatitis B virus. Your healthcare provider may test you for hepatitis B before starting Mavyret and during treatment.
• Risk of Infection: Mavyret can suppress your immune system, increasing the risk of infections. Report any signs of infection to your healthcare provider, such as fever, chills, sore throat, or flu-like symptoms.
• Risk of Severe Skin Reactions: Rarely, Mavyret can cause severe skin reactions, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis. If you experience any severe skin rash or blistering, seek immediate medical attention.

It’s crucial to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about any side effects you experience during Mavyret treatment. They can provide guidance on managing these side effects and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan. In some cases, they may recommend discontinuing Mavyret if severe side effects occur.

Remember that the potential benefits of treating hepatitis C with Mavyret, including preventing liver damage and complications, usually outweigh the risk of side effects. Your healthcare provider will carefully assess the risks and benefits and tailor your treatment plan to your specific medical situation.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and disposal of Mavyret:

Storage:

• Store Mavyret at room temperature, away from excessive heat and moisture.
• Keep the medication in its original packaging or container to protect it from light.
• Keep it out of the reach of children and pets.
• Do not store Mavyret in the bathroom, as moisture and humidity can degrade the medication.

Disposal:

• Do not keep Mavyret tablets that are no longer needed or have expired.
• Dispose of unused or expired medication properly to prevent accidental ingestion by children or misuse.
• Follow your local regulations and guidelines for safe medication disposal. Many pharmacies and healthcare facilities offer medication disposal programs, where you can return unused medications for safe disposal.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of a suspected overdose or emergency while taking Mavyret, contact your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 or seek immediate medical attention. Overdose symptoms can vary, but they may include severe nausea, vomiting, unusual fatigue, or other serious side effects.

What other information should I know?

• Follow Your Healthcare Provider’s Instructions: Always take Mavyret exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not change the dosage or stop taking it without their guidance.
• Regular Monitoring: Your healthcare provider will likely schedule regular follow-up appointments and blood tests to monitor your progress during Mavyret treatment. Attend these appointments as directed.
• Contraception: If you are of childbearing age and sexually active, discuss contraception options with your healthcare provider, as Mavyret can potentially harm an unborn baby.
• Tell All Healthcare Providers: Make sure to inform all healthcare providers, including dentists and specialists, that you are taking Mavyret. They should be aware of your current medications to prevent potential drug interactions.
• Adherence: Adherence to the treatment plan is essential for the successful elimination of hepatitis C. If you have difficulty taking your medication as prescribed or experience side effects, discuss these issues with your healthcare provider rather than altering the treatment on your own.
• Patient Assistance Programs: If you’re concerned about the cost of Mavyret, inquire with your healthcare provider about patient assistance programs or prescription assistance programs that may be available to help with the cost of the medication.

Always consult with your healthcare provider and pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about your Mavyret treatment or any aspect of your medication regimen. They can provide personalized guidance and ensure you have the necessary information to use the medication safely and effectively.