How Do HCV NS5A Inhibitors Work?

HCV NS5A inhibitors are a class of drugs used to treat hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections. To know how HCV NS5A inhibitors work, let us first understand the structure of the hepatitis virus. HCV is a small, enveloped RNA virus. The RNA is responsible for viral replication and is surrounded by lipid layers and glycoproteins. It is also responsible for coding several proteins that help the virus to replicate. Some of the proteins associated with viral replication include:

• NS2
• NS3
• NS4A
• NS5A
• NS5B

To destroy the HCV virus, it is important to target these proteins to prevent viral replication and thus its progression, which is done by the HCV NS5A inhibitor by inhibiting the action of the NS5A protein. Consequently, viral replication comes to a standstill and ultimately the virus dies.

HCV NS5A inhibitors are mainly administered orally and used to treat:

• Chronic hepatitis C
• HIV infection when used in combination with other drugs

The side effects of HCV NS5A inhibitors include:

• Headache
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Itching
• Liver failure
• Depression
• Abdominal pain
• Irritability
• Anemia
• Shortness of breath
• Joint pain

The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible side effects, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. Check with your doctor or pharmacist to make sure these drugs do not cause any harm when you take them along with other medicines. Never stop taking your medication and never change your dose or frequency without consulting your doctor.

Generic and brand names of HCV NS5A inhibitor drugs include:

• Daclatasvir
• Daklinza
• Elbasvir/grazoprevir
• Epclusa
• Glecaprevir/pibrentasvir
• Harvoni
• Ledipasvir/sofosbuvir
• Mavyret
• Ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir
• Ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir and dasabuvir
• Sofosbuvir/velpatasvir
• Sofosbuvir/velpatasvir/voxilaprevir
• Technivie
• Velpatasvir
• Viekira pak
• Vosevi
• Zepatier