Pibrentasvir: NS5A Inhibitor for Hepatitis C
Pibrentasvir is a direct-acting antiviral (DAA) agent that acts as an inhibitor of the Hepatitis C virus NS5A protein. This protein is essential for viral RNA replication and virion assembly. By blocking it, the drug effectively halts the spread of the infection within the body.
Pibrentasvir exhibits potent pangenotypic activity and a high barrier to resistance. It is used exclusively in fixed-dose combination with Glecaprevir (branded as Mavyret/Maviret), providing a dual mechanism of action against the virus. On Unifarm, you can check the availability of this therapy.
Indications
- Chronic Hepatitis C: Treatment of all genotypes (1–6) in adults and children aged 3 years and older (as part of combination therapy).
- Special Populations: Highly effective for patients with severe renal impairment (including dialysis) and post-transplant patients.
Dosage and administration
Pibrentasvir is available only co-formulated with Glecaprevir. It must be taken with food to ensure optimal absorption.
Standard Regimen (8 weeks):
- Adults take 3 tablets once daily at the same time.
- Total daily dose is 120 mg of Pibrentasvir (and 300 mg of Glecaprevir).
- Treatment duration is typically 8 weeks (for treatment-naive patients without cirrhosis).
- Severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class B or C).
- Hypersensitivity to the active substance.
- Concomitant use with atorvastatin, simvastatin, rifampin (risk of drug-drug interactions).
Pibrentasvir-based combination therapy is generally well-tolerated. Common adverse reactions include:
- CNS: Headache (very common), fatigue.
- Gastrointestinal: Nausea, diarrhea.
- Labs: Transient bilirubin elevation (asymptomatic).
