Sofosbuvir: what it does and what you should know

Sofosbuvir changed hepatitis C care. Where older treatments failed or caused harsh side effects, sofosbuvir-based regimens made cures possible for many people. If you or someone you care for is facing a hepatitis C diagnosis, knowing how sofosbuvir works, what to expect, and how to get it safely matters.

How sofosbuvir works and when it’s used

Sofosbuvir is an antiviral that blocks the hepatitis C virus from copying its RNA. Doctors almost always give it with another antiviral—common combinations are ledipasvir/sofosbuvir (Harvoni) or sofosbuvir/velpatasvir (Epclusa). Treatment length is usually 8 to 12 weeks, sometimes longer if there’s cirrhosis or prior treatment failure. That short course can lead to a sustained virologic response (SVR12), which means the virus is not detectable 12 weeks after finishing treatment.

It works across many HCV genotypes, but the exact combo and duration depend on genotype, liver health, and prior treatments. Your clinician will order genotype testing and check liver function before deciding on the right plan.

Safety, side effects, interactions and getting treatment

Most people tolerate sofosbuvir well. Common side effects include fatigue, headache, and mild nausea. Serious problems are rare, but there are a few things to watch for: combining sofosbuvir with amiodarone can trigger dangerous slow heart rates, so doctors avoid that mix. Some strong enzyme inducers like rifampin or St. John's wort can lower antiviral levels—tell your provider about all medicines and supplements you take.

Kidney function matters. Sofosbuvir is cleared by the kidneys, so people with severe renal impairment need careful evaluation and sometimes different drugs. Pregnancy and breastfeeding decisions should be discussed with a provider; your doctor will weigh risks and benefits.

Want to buy sofosbuvir online? Only use licensed pharmacies and require a prescription. Be cautious of websites selling prescription drugs without a prescription or at unrealistically low prices. Look for clear contact info, proper pharmacy licensing, and credible reviews. Generic versions are available in some countries at lower cost, but verify the source and quality before ordering.

Before starting treatment, ask your provider these practical questions: What combination and length do you recommend for my genotype? Which tests will monitor treatment success and side effects? Are there medicines I must stop? Who can I call if I notice side effects?

Sofosbuvir is one of the biggest advances in hepatitis C care. With the right combination, proper monitoring, and safe sourcing, many people reach a cure. Talk openly with your healthcare team and confirm every medicine you take to keep treatment safe and effective.