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Drug interactions

Efavirenz + Velpatasvir

Severity: Major

Efavirenz and Velpatasvir: major interaction.

Last updated

For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.

Summary

Efavirenz reduces velpatasvir exposure, which may lead to a diminished antiviral response and hepatitis C treatment failure. Product labeling does not recommend the combination.

What this interaction means in plain words

Efavirenz and Velpatasvir can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for.

Efavirenz belongs to Anti Virals; Velpatasvir belongs to Anti Virals.

Evidence level: High

Why it happens

Efavirenz induces CYP2B6, CYP2C8 and CYP3A4, increasing velpatasvir metabolism.

What to do

Avoid the combination and change the HIV regimen to a non-inducing option before HCV treatment. Choose another HCV regimen if switching is not possible.

What to ask your pharmacist

  • Does the benefit of taking both outweigh the risk in my case?
  • Do I need any blood test, ECG or other check while on both?
  • What early warning signs should I watch for, and what should I do if they appear?

Bring a full list of your medicines, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, to every pharmacy visit.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I take Efavirenz with Velpatasvir?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Efavirenz and Velpatasvir can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for. Efavirenz reduces velpatasvir exposure, which may lead to a diminished antiviral response and hepatitis C treatment failure. Product labeling does not recommend the combination.

How serious is the interaction between Efavirenz and Velpatasvir?

MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid the combination and change the HIV regimen to a non-inducing option before HCV treatment. Choose another HCV regimen if switching is not possible.

What other medicines interact with Efavirenz?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Efavirenz with, for example, Cobimetinib, Dienogest / estradiol valerate, Dihydroergotamine intranasal. The full list is on the Efavirenz page.

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