Simeprevir
OLYSIO
Pronunciation: sim-E-pre-veer
What it isA second-generation HCV NS3/4A protease inhibitor that blocks the polyprotein processing essential for hepatitis C replication.
Why this oneCombined with sofosbuvir or peginterferon/ribavirin for genotype 1/4 HCV, it is now largely obsolete and retained mainly for interaction data.
What limits itA boxed warning for HBV reactivation, plus photosensitivity, rash, and reduced efficacy with the Q80K polymorphism, limit its use.
⚠ BOXED WARNING
- Hepatitis B virus reactivation in patients coinfected with HCV and HBV
Principal riskBoxed warning: risk of hepatitis B virus reactivation, including fulminant hepatitis and death, in patients coinfected with HCV and HBV.