Viekira Pak

Viekira Pak is a combination antiviral medication used to treat chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. It contains four active ingredients: ombitasvir, paritaprevir, ritonavir, and dasabuvir. This medication is specifically indicated for patients with genotype 1 HCV infection, including those with compensated cirrhosis. The medication comes in a unique packaging format with two types of tablets: - Pink tablets containing ombitasvir (12.5mg), paritaprevir (75mg), and ritonavir (50mg) - Beige tablets containing dasabuvir (250mg) The recommended dosage is two pink tablets once daily (in the morning) and one beige tablet twice daily (morning and evening), to be taken with a meal regardless of fat or calorie content[1][3]. ## Mechanism of Action Viekira Pak works through a combination of direct-acting antiviral mechanisms: - Ombitasvir: HCV NS5A inhibitor - Paritaprevir: HCV NS3/4A protease inhibitor - Ritonavir: CYP3A inhibitor (acts as a pharmacokinetic booster) - Dasabuvir: HCV NS5B palm polymerase inhibitor[5] Together, these medications prevent the hepatitis C virus from multiplying in the body[2]. ## Treatment Regimen The treatment duration varies based on HCV genotype and liver condition: - Genotype 1a without cirrhosis: 12 weeks with ribavirin - Genotype 1a with compensated cirrhosis: 24 weeks with ribavirin (12 weeks may be considered for some patients) - Genotype 1b with or without compensated cirrhosis: 12 weeks without ribavirin[5] ## Important Considerations - Viekira Pak is not recommended for patients with decompensated liver disease[1]. - All patients should be tested for hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection before starting treatment, as HBV reactivation has been reported in HCV/HBV co-infected patients[8]. - Patients with HIV-1 co-infection should be on a suppressive antiretroviral drug regimen[1]. - The medication interacts with many other drugs, particularly those metabolized by CYP3A[3]. - It cannot be taken with birth control containing ethynyl estradiol[3]. Viekira Pak represents an effective treatment option for hepatitis C, with high cure rates and a relatively manageable side effect profile. The most common side effects include nausea, tiredness, itching, and rash[3].

Brand names

Viekira Pak

Other names

ombitasvir + paritaprevir/ritonavir + dasabuvir