WARNING

Daclatasvir, an antiviral medication used to treat hepatitis C, has several potential risks and side effects. Common side effects include headache, fatigue, nausea, and diarrhea. More serious risks can include:

• Bradycardia: When taken with sofosbuvir and amiodarone, it can cause slow heart rate.
• Hepatitis B reactivation: In patients co-infected with hepatitis B, there’s a risk of reactivation.
• Severe allergic reactions: These are rare but can include symptoms like rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, and trouble breathing.
• Drug interactions: Daclatasvir can interact with other medications, potentially leading to increased side effects or reduced effectiveness.

Patients should be monitored regularly by healthcare providers to manage these risks.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Daclatasvir is prescribed primarily for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. It is used in combination with other antiviral medications, such as sofosbuvir, to achieve a sustained virologic response (SVR), which means the virus becomes undetectable in the blood. Daclatasvir is effective against multiple genotypes of HCV and helps prevent the virus from multiplying and spreading within the body.

How should this medicine be used?

Daclatasvir should be used strictly according to the prescribing healthcare provider’s instructions. Here are some general guidelines on its usage:

• Dosage and Administration: Daclatasvir is usually taken once daily, with or without food. The typical dose is 60 mg, but the exact dosage can vary depending on other medications being taken, potential drug interactions, and specific patient conditions.
• Combination Therapy: Daclatasvir is not used alone; it must be combined with other antiviral drugs, most commonly sofosbuvir. The specific combination regimen depends on the HCV genotype and the patient’s treatment history.
• Duration of Treatment: The length of treatment typically ranges from 12 to 24 weeks, depending on the HCV genotype, presence of liver cirrhosis, and whether the patient has previously been treated for HCV.
• Adherence to Therapy: It is crucial to take daclatasvir exactly as prescribed and not to miss doses, as this can lead to the development of drug-resistant virus strains.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring by healthcare providers is essential. This includes blood tests to check for liver function and viral load to ensure the medication is working effectively.
• Storage: Store daclatasvir at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Patients should follow their healthcare provider’s instructions closely and discuss any side effects or concerns that arise during treatment. Regular medical check-ups are important to monitor the effectiveness and safety of the treatment.

Other uses for this medicine

Apart from its primary use in treating HCV infection, Daclatasvir may also be investigated or prescribed off-label for certain other conditions. However, any such use should be under the supervision and guidance of a qualified healthcare professional.

What special precautions should I follow?

When taking Daclatasvir, it’s essential to follow specific precautions to ensure safety and effectiveness:

• Medical History: Inform your healthcare provider about your complete medical history, including any other medical conditions you have and all medications you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal supplements.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Daclatasvir may cause harm to a developing fetus, so it’s crucial to avoid pregnancy during treatment and for a period afterward. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider. It is not known whether Daclatasvir passes into breast milk, so breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment.
• Liver Function: Daclatasvir may affect liver function, so regular monitoring of liver enzymes and function is necessary during treatment. Patients with severe liver impairment may require dosage adjustments or additional monitoring.
• Drug Interactions: Daclatasvir can interact with other medications, including both prescription and over-the-counter drugs, as well as supplements. Some drug combinations can lead to serious side effects or reduced effectiveness of Daclatasvir. Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
• Allergic Reactions: If you have a known allergy to Daclatasvir or any of its ingredients, inform your healthcare provider before starting treatment. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Daclatasvir may cause dizziness or fatigue as side effects. If you experience these symptoms, avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how the medication affects you.

Following these precautions and guidelines can help ensure the safe and effective use of Daclatasvir for the treatment of hepatitis C or other conditions as prescribed by your healthcare provider.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Daclatasvir. However, maintaining a healthy and balanced diet can support overall health during treatment. Ensure adequate hydration and avoid excessive alcohol consumption, which can impact liver function.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Daclatasvir, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Daclatasvir, like any medication, can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects of Daclatasvir may include:

• Headache: Mild to moderate headaches are common during Daclatasvir treatment.
• Fatigue: Feeling tired or fatigued is another frequent side effect.
• Nausea: Some individuals may experience nausea or upset stomach.
• Diarrhea: Diarrhea can occur in some patients.
• Insomnia: Difficulty sleeping or insomnia may occur in some individuals.
• Rash: Skin rash or itching can sometimes develop as a reaction to Daclatasvir.
• Dizziness: Feeling dizzy or lightheaded is another possible side effect.

Less common but more serious side effects may include:

• Bradycardia: When Daclatasvir is taken with certain other medications, it can cause a slow heart rate.
• Liver Problems: Daclatasvir may affect liver function, and in rare cases, severe liver injury can occur. Symptoms of liver problems include yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, abdominal pain, and unusual tiredness.
• Allergic Reactions: Serious allergic reactions to Daclatasvir are rare but can include symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, and difficulty breathing.
• Hepatitis B Reactivation: In patients co-infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV), there’s a risk of HBV reactivation during or after Daclatasvir treatment.

It’s important to report any unusual or severe symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly. They can help manage side effects and determine if any adjustments to your treatment plan are necessary.

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

Storage and Disposal of Daclatasvir:

• Storage: Store Daclatasvir tablets at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the medication in its original packaging and out of reach of children and pets.
• Disposal: Dispose of unused or expired Daclatasvir tablets properly according to local regulations or guidelines. Do not flush them down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of an overdose or emergency involving Daclatasvir, seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center. If possible, provide information about the amount of medication ingested and any symptoms experienced. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed to do so by medical professionals.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Follow-up: Attend all scheduled medical appointments for monitoring of liver function, viral load, and overall health status during Daclatasvir treatment.
• Complete Treatment: Complete the full course of Daclatasvir as prescribed by your healthcare provider, even if you start feeling better before the treatment is finished.
• Avoid Alcohol: Limit or avoid alcohol consumption during Daclatasvir treatment, as alcohol can exacerbate liver-related side effects.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and over-the-counter drugs you are taking to avoid potential drug interactions with Daclatasvir.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of Daclatasvir with your healthcare provider.
• Travel: Inform your healthcare provider if you plan to travel while taking Daclatasvir, especially to regions where hepatitis C is prevalent, as additional precautions or vaccinations may be necessary.
• Medical Alert: Wear a medical alert bracelet or carry a medical alert card indicating that you are taking Daclatasvir, especially if you have a history of liver disease or other medical conditions.

By following these guidelines and staying informed about the proper use and precautions associated with Daclatasvir, you can help ensure the safe and effective management of your hepatitis C treatment.