From the Guidelines
Epclusa (sofosbuvir/velpatasvir) is not typically associated with significant hair loss as a common side effect, and most hair-related issues resolve after completing treatment. While some patients taking Epclusa for hepatitis C treatment may experience hair thinning or shedding, this is generally mild and temporary. Hair loss is not listed among the primary side effects in clinical trials of Epclusa, as seen in the most recent and highest quality study 1. If you're experiencing noticeable hair loss while taking Epclusa, it's essential to consider that the hair loss might be related to other factors such as the underlying hepatitis C infection itself, stress, nutritional deficiencies, or other medications you may be taking concurrently. Hepatitis C can cause various systemic effects that might contribute to hair loss, and the process of clearing the virus can temporarily affect hair growth cycles. Some studies have reported adverse effects related to other treatments, such as PegIFN-α, which can cause hair loss, but this is not typically associated with Epclusa 1. The most recent guidelines recommend the use of pangenotypic DAA-based regimens, including Epclusa, for the treatment of patients infected with HCV, due to their virological efficacy, ease of use, safety, and tolerability 1. If hair loss is concerning you during Epclusa treatment, consult your healthcare provider, but do not discontinue your medication without medical advice, as completing the full 12-week course of Epclusa is crucial for successful hepatitis C treatment. Key points to consider include:
- Hair loss is not a common side effect of Epclusa
- Hair-related issues are generally mild and temporary
- Other factors, such as the underlying hepatitis C infection, may contribute to hair loss
- Completing the full 12-week course of Epclusa is crucial for successful hepatitis C treatment
- Consult your healthcare provider if hair loss is concerning you during Epclusa treatment.
From the Research
Epclusa and Hair Loss
- There is no direct evidence in the provided studies that links Epclusa (sofosbuvir-velpatasvir) to hair loss 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- The studies primarily focus on the efficacy and safety of Epclusa in treating hepatitis C virus infection, with reported adverse effects including fatigue, headache, nausea, and nasopharyngitis 3, 4.
- Photosensitivity is mentioned as a potential adverse skin effect associated with Epclusa, but hair loss is not reported as a side effect in any of the studies 2.
- The lack of evidence suggests that hair loss may not be a commonly reported or well-documented side effect of Epclusa treatment 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.