MAVYRET for Chronic Hepatitis C: How It Works and Who It's For

Chronic Hepatitis C is a persistent viral infection affecting millions worldwide. It can lead to severe liver damage, including cirrhosis and liver cancer, if left untreated. Fortunately, advancements in treatment, like MAVYRET, offer hope to those battling this disease. This article explores how MAVYRET works and who can benefit from this effective therapy.

What is MAVYRET?

MAVYRET is a prescription medication designed to treat chronic hepatitis C (hep C) in adults and children aged three years and older. It is known for its ability to target multiple genotypes of the hepatitis C virus (HCV), making it a versatile and powerful treatment option.

How Does MAVYRET Work?

MAVYRET combines two active ingredients: glecaprevir and pibrentasvir. Together, these components work as direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) to stop the hepatitis C virus from replicating.

• Glecaprevir: A protease inhibitor that blocks the NS3/4A protease, an enzyme the virus uses to replicate.
• Pibrentasvir: An NS5A inhibitor that prevents the virus from assembling and spreading.

By targeting these vital components of the virus’s lifecycle, MAVYRET effectively eliminates the infection from the body over a short treatment duration.

Who is MAVYRET For?

MAVYRET is approved to treat patients with:

1. Hepatitis C Genotypes 1-6: MAVYRET is effective across all major genotypes of the hepatitis C virus, whether or not the patient has cirrhosis (compensated cirrhosis only).
2. Previously Treated Genotype 1 Patients: MAVYRET is an option for patients who have been treated with regimens containing either:
3. Pediatric Patients Aged 3 and Older: MAVYRET offers a safe and effective treatment option for younger patients, expanding access to hepatitis C cures for children.

Important Safety Information

Before starting MAVYRET, healthcare providers will perform blood tests to check for:

• Hepatitis B Virus (Hep B): MAVYRET treatment may reactivate a previous hepatitis B infection, potentially causing severe liver damage. Regular monitoring during and after treatment helps mitigate this risk.

Patients should avoid MAVYRET if they:

• Have certain liver problems, including severe cirrhosis.
• Are taking medications like atazanavir or rifampin, which can interact with MAVYRET.

How Long is the Treatment?

For most patients, MAVYRET treatment lasts 8 to 12 weeks, depending on individual circumstances, such as prior treatment history and liver condition. This shorter duration is a significant advantage over other hepatitis C therapies.

Why Choose MAVYRET?

• Broad Coverage: Treats all major genotypes of hepatitis C.
• Short Treatment Duration: Offers results in as little as eight weeks for eligible patients.
• Pediatric-Friendly: Approved for use in children as young as three.

Final Thoughts

MAVYRET represents a major breakthrough in the fight against chronic hepatitis C. Its ability to treat a wide range of genotypes and cater to previously treated patients makes it a leading choice for those seeking an effective cure. If you or a loved one are living with hepatitis C, talk to your healthcare provider to see if MAVYRET is the right treatment option for you.