WARNING

Viekira XR is a prescription medication used to treat chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. It’s important to note that information about medications can change, and it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional or check more recent sources for the latest information.

Here are some general risks associated with Viekira XR, but keep in mind that this is not an exhaustive list, and individual experiences may vary:

• Drug Interactions: Viekira XR can interact with other medications, potentially affecting their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. It’s essential to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking.
• Liver Problems: Individuals with advanced liver disease may face an increased risk of liver problems when taking Viekira XR. Monitoring liver function is typically recommended during treatment.
• Side Effects: Like any medication, Viekira XR may cause side effects. Common side effects may include fatigue, itching, nausea, and trouble sleeping. Serious side effects are possible but less common.
• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may be allergic to components of Viekira XR, leading to serious reactions. Seek medical attention if you experience symptoms such as rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
• Rash and Photosensitivity: Viekira XR can cause skin reactions, including rash and sun sensitivity. Patients are advised to use sunscreen and avoid prolonged sun exposure.
• Pancreatitis: There have been reports of pancreatitis in patients taking Viekira XR. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience severe abdominal pain.

It’s crucial to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions, attend regular check-ups, and report any unusual or severe symptoms promptly. This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance based on your health status and medical history.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Viekira XR is a prescription medication used to treat chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in adults. Hepatitis C is a viral infection that affects the liver, and if left untreated, it can lead to serious liver problems, including cirrhosis (scarring of the liver) and liver cancer.

Viekira XR is specifically indicated for the treatment of genotype 1 chronic hepatitis C infection, which is one of the most common types of hepatitis C in the United States. The medication is typically used in combination with other antiviral drugs to increase its effectiveness in eradicating the virus from the body.

The combination therapy usually includes ombitasvir, paritaprevir, ritonavir, and dasabuvir, which are all active ingredients in Viekira XR. These drugs work by targeting different steps in the hepatitis C virus lifecycle, inhibiting its ability to replicate and spread in the body.

How should this medicine be used?

Viekira XR is typically prescribed as part of a combination therapy for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, specifically genotype 1. The combination may include other antiviral medications, such as ombitasvir, paritaprevir, ritonavir, and dasabuvir.

Here are some general guidelines for taking Viekira XR:

• Dosage: The typical dosage of Viekira XR involves taking the prescribed number of tablets once daily with a meal. The medication is usually taken for a specific duration as determined by your healthcare provider.
• Meal Requirement: Viekira XR should be taken with a meal, preferably in the morning or evening. This helps improve the absorption of the medication.
• Consistency: It’s important to take Viekira XR consistently at the same time each day to maintain a steady level of the medication in your bloodstream.
• Avoid Missing Doses: If you miss a dose of Viekira XR, take it as soon as you remember, with a meal. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.
• Follow-up Monitoring: Your healthcare provider will likely conduct regular follow-up appointments and monitoring, including blood tests, to assess your response to the treatment and check for any potential side effects.
• Adherence to Full Course: It’s important to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed by your healthcare provider, even if you start feeling better before the treatment is complete. This helps maximize the chances of successfully clearing the hepatitis C virus from your body.
• Storage: Store Viekira XR at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep the medication in its original packaging.

Always inform your healthcare provider about any other medications, supplements, or over-the-counter drugs you may be taking, as they can interact with Viekira XR. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

These guidelines are general in nature, and your specific treatment plan may vary. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice based on your medical condition and history.

Other uses for this medicine

Viekira XR is specifically approved for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, particularly genotype 1, and is not indicated for other uses. Its use in treating other conditions has not been established, and its safety and efficacy for purposes other than treating HCV have not been confirmed.

What special precautions should I follow?

As for special precautions when using Viekira XR, it’s essential to discuss your medical history and any other medications or supplements you are taking with your healthcare provider. Here are some general precautions associated with Viekira XR:

• Liver Function Monitoring: Since Viekira XR is used to treat a viral infection that primarily affects the liver, your healthcare provider will likely monitor your liver function regularly during the course of treatment. This is particularly important for individuals with pre-existing liver conditions.
• Drug Interactions: Viekira XR can interact with other medications, potentially affecting their efficacy or increasing the risk of side effects. Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking to ensure there are no potential interactions.
• Allergic Reactions: If you are allergic to any of the components of Viekira XR, you should not take the medication. Allergic reactions can be serious and may include symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing. Seek medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss these circumstances with your healthcare provider before starting Viekira XR. The safety of this medication during pregnancy and lactation is not well established.
• Pancreatitis: Cases of pancreatitis have been reported in individuals taking Viekira XR. Inform your healthcare provider if you experience severe abdominal pain, as this could be a sign of pancreatitis.
• Photosensitivity: Viekira XR can cause skin reactions, and patients are advised to use sunscreen and avoid prolonged sun exposure to reduce the risk of skin problems.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s advice and take the medication exactly as prescribed. If you have any concerns about Viekira XR or its potential side effects, discuss them with your healthcare provider. This information is not exhaustive, and it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance based on your specific health situation.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Special Dietary Instructions:

• Take with a Meal: Viekira XR should be taken with a meal, either in the morning or evening. This helps improve the absorption of the medication.
• Consistent Meal Timing: Take Viekira XR consistently at the same time each day with a meal to maintain a steady level of the medication in your bloodstream.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Take as Soon as Possible: If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember, with a meal.
• Skip the Missed Dose if Close to Next Dose: If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule.
• Do Not Double Up: Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Viekira XR, like any medication, can cause side effects. It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and the severity can vary from person to person. Additionally, the combination therapy used for hepatitis C, which may include Viekira XR, involves multiple medications, so the overall side effect profile can be influenced by the entire regimen. Below are some potential side effects associated with Viekira XR:

Common Side Effects:

• Tiredness (fatigue)
• Itching (pruritus)
• Nausea
• Trouble sleeping (insomnia)
• Feeling weak or lacking energy (asthenia)

Serious Side Effects:

• Liver problems: Cases of serious liver problems, including liver failure and death, have occurred in patients with advanced liver disease.
• Photosensitivity reactions: Increased sensitivity to sunlight, leading to skin reactions. It’s advisable to use sunscreen and take precautions against prolonged sun exposure.
• Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas, which may cause severe abdominal pain. Seek medical attention if you experience persistent abdominal pain.
• Allergic reactions: These can include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience these symptoms.
• Serious skin reactions: Although rare, severe skin reactions, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis, have been reported.
• Hepatitis B reactivation: For individuals with current or previous hepatitis B infection, there is a risk of hepatitis B reactivation during or after treatment.

It’s important to report any side effects or unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly. Your healthcare provider will monitor your progress and may order regular blood tests to check for liver function and other parameters during the course of treatment.

This is not an exhaustive list of side effects, and individuals may experience side effects not mentioned here. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for comprehensive information about the potential side effects of Viekira XR, as well as guidance on how to manage and report them. If you experience severe or life-threatening symptoms, seek emergency medical attention.

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

Storage and Disposal of Viekira XR:

• Storage: Store Viekira XR at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep the medication in its original packaging to protect it from environmental factors.
• Avoid Extreme Conditions: Do not store Viekira XR in the bathroom or expose it to extreme temperatures (too hot or too cold).
• Keep Out of Reach of Children: Store medications in a location that is out of reach of children and pets.
• Discard Expired Medication: Dispose of any expired or unused medication. Check the expiration date on the packaging.
• Follow Local Regulations: Follow your local regulations for the proper disposal of medications. Some areas have specific guidelines for disposing of pharmaceuticals to minimize environmental impact.

In case of emergency/overdose

In the case of an emergency or suspected overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Contact your local poison control center or emergency room. The symptoms of an overdose may vary, and medical professionals will provide appropriate care based on the specific circumstances.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Follow-up: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider. They will monitor your progress, conduct necessary tests, and adjust treatment as needed.
• Lab Tests: Your healthcare provider may order regular blood tests to monitor liver function and assess the effectiveness of the treatment.
• Adherence to Treatment: Take Viekira XR exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not alter the dosage or stop taking the medication without consulting your healthcare professional.
• Communication with Healthcare Provider: Inform your healthcare provider of any side effects, changes in health, or new medications during the course of treatment.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss these circumstances with your healthcare provider before starting Viekira XR.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking to avoid potential drug interactions.
• Allergic Reactions: If you experience symptoms of an allergic reaction (such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing), seek immediate medical attention.

Always follow the advice and instructions provided by your healthcare provider and pharmacist. If you have any questions or concerns about Viekira XR or its usage, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your healthcare professional for personalized guidance based on your health status.