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Home > Drug Category > Hepatitis Medications > Daklinza and Equivalent

Daklinza Information

Daklinza (Daclatasvir Dihydrochloride) is used to treat hepatitis C infection in adults. It is used mainly for genotypes 1 and 3 of hepatitis C infection in patients with or without liver scarring. It is never used alone, but always used in combination with other antiviral medications to minimize the risk of the virus developing resistance. Hepatitis C is a potentially severe viral infection that causes liver inflammation, which can lead to severe liver damage and cirrhosis over time if left untreated. The active ingredient in this medication is daclatasvir dihydrochloride, which belongs to a class of medications called direct-acting antivirals, specifically the NS5A inhibitor class. Daclatasvir works by targeting a specific protein in the hepatitis C virus called NS5A. This protein is essential for the virus's ability to replicate and form new viral particles. By binding to and inhibiting NS5A, daclatasvir essentially blocks the virus's life cycle, preventing it from multiplying and spreading within the body. When used as part of a combination therapy with other antivirals, this mechanism helps to clear the virus from a patient's bloodstream, potentially leading to a sustained virologic response and a functional cure.

Daklinza Side Effects

Some common side effects of this medication include diarrhea, headache, nausea, rash, tiredness, and trouble sleeping. Contact your doctor if these common side effects persist or worsen.

Stop taking this medicine and contact your doctor immediately if you experience any serious side effects, including the following:
• Allergic reactions such as breathing difficulties, hives, swelling of the face, mouth, tongue, lips, or throat;
• Anemia (low red blood cells) with symptoms like dizziness, pale skin, and unusual tiredness;
• Slow heart rate

Inform your doctor about any other side effects you notice that are not listed here.

Daklinza Precautions

Do not use this oral medication if you are allergic to daclatasvir or any other ingredients in Daklinza. Before you start taking this medication, ensure that you inform your doctor about any prior or current medical conditions, including the following:
• Diabetes;
• Galactose intolerance;
• Heart disease;
• Hepatitis B infection;
• HIV infection;
• Liver disease;
• Other genotype of hepatitis C;
• You have had an organ transplant.

People who have hepatitis B infection that is dormant may experience the infection returning while taking this medicine, causing further liver dysfunction or liver failure. Therefore, ensure you know your hepatitis B status before taking this medication. It is advised to avoid driving, operating machinery, or performing other potentially hazardous tasks until you have determined how you are affected by this medication, as it can cause dizziness. Do not use this medication during pregnancy, and also avoid breastfeeding while taking this medication. If you get pregnant while taking this medication, stop taking Daklinza and tell your doctor immediately. Inform your doctor if you intend to get pregnant. Use effective contraception during and for 5 weeks after your treatment with Daklinza. This medicine is not for use in children. Daclatasvir may interact with other medications and substances like amiodarone, antihistamines, carbamazepine, dexamethasone, diabetes medications, and grapefruit juice. Tell your doctor about all the medicines, including herbal supplements, you are taking before using Daklinza to minimize the risk of interactions.

Take Daklinza orally once daily, with or without food, usually as a 60 mg tablet. Swallow the tablet whole at the same time each day to maintain consistent drug levels. Your doctor may recommend that you take this medication for 12 to 24 weeks. Use it only in combination with other antivirals such as sofosbuvir, with or without ribavirin, as directed by your doctor. Do not skip or stop doses early, since this may reduce effectiveness and allow the virus to return. Store this medication at room temperature in the original container. Please protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Daklinza?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Daklinza.