Sofosbuvir
SovaldiPubChem CID 45375808 · 3D model
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Stops the hepatitis C virus from copying its genetic material, so the infection can't spread to new cells.
How it works
Sofosbuvir is inactive until the body's cells convert it into a form that mimics one of the natural building blocks of RNA. When the hepatitis C virus tries to copy its genetic code using this decoy building block, the copying process gets stuck and stops. Because it targets a tool the virus itself needs, it can shut down viral replication with relatively few side effects tied to that mechanism. It's never given alone, it's always paired with other antiviral medicines.
What it’s used for
Used to treat chronic hepatitis C, a liver infection caused by a virus. Depending on the specific strain of the virus and whether the liver already shows scarring, it's combined with other antiviral drugs for a set number of weeks. Also used in children as young as 3, and in adults with liver cancer waiting for a liver transplant.
- Mechanism
- NS5B RNA polymerase inhibitor (nucleotide analog)
- Drug class
- Small molecule
- Therapeutic area
- Antiviral