daclatasvir – antiviral for hepatitis C

When working with daclatasvir, an NS5A inhibitor used to treat hepatitis C virus infections. Also known as DCV, it blocks a crucial protein that the virus needs to replicate. This drug belongs to the NS5A inhibitor class that targets the non‑structural protein 5A of HCV, a key step in the viral lifecycle. Because of that action, daclatasvir is often paired with other direct‑acting antivirals (DAAs) such as polymerase inhibitors and protease inhibitors to boost cure rates. The combination of daclatasvir with a nucleotide polymerase inhibitor like sofosbuvir provides a pangenotypic regimen that clears over 95% of infections in clinical studies.

Why does this matter for people living with hepatitis C, a blood‑borne liver disease that can progress to cirrhosis or liver cancer? Traditional interferon‑based therapies were long, painful, and riddled with side effects. DAAs like daclatasvir shifted the paradigm: treatment courses now last 8–12 weeks, oral administration replaces injections, and side‑effect profiles are mild. However, the success of any DAA regimen still depends on proper patient assessment. For instance, drug‑drug interaction checks are essential because daclatasvir is metabolized by CYP3A4, and certain anticonvulsants or antibiotics can lower its effectiveness. Moreover, patients with advanced liver disease may need dosage adjustments, and renal function influences the choice of companion drugs. Understanding these nuances helps clinicians prescribe safe, effective therapy and patients stay informed about what to expect.

Beyond the basics, the daclatasvir landscape continues to evolve. Real‑world data show that shorter courses, such as 8‑week regimens for non‑cirrhotic genotype‑1 patients, match the efficacy of longer schedules. Ongoing studies are testing daclatasvir with next‑generation NS5B polymerase inhibitors to further simplify therapy. For anyone researching treatment options, the key take‑away is that daclatasvir sits at the intersection of high efficacy, tolerable safety, and flexible regimen design. Below you’ll find a curated set of articles that dive into specific comparisons, safety considerations, and practical tips to help you navigate hepatitis C treatment with confidence.