Sofosbuvir-based Treatment for HCV: A Safe Option in Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis

The objective of this study was to ascertain the safety and efficacy of sofosbuvir in patients undergoing hemodialysis. Twenty-three HCV infected patients undergoing hemodialysis were included. Sofosbuvir was administered in combinations with ribavirin, daclatasvir and ledipasvir for 12-24 weeks. Viral response was checked at the end and 12 weeks after completing therapy. Twenty-one (91.3%) were of genotype 3 and two (8.7%) genotype 1. Eight (34.8%) had cirrhosis. Three (13%) were previous relapsers to sofosbuvir and ribavirin, while one (4.3%) was relapser to interferon. Sofosbuvir plus ribavirin was given to four (17.4%), sofosbuvir plus daclatasvir to eleven (47.8%), sofosbuvir plus daclatasvir plus ribavirin to four (17.4%), sofosbuvir plus velpatasvir to three (13%), and sofosbuvir plus ledipasvir to one (4.3%) patient. Twenty-one (91.3%) achieved viral eradication on completion of treatment; two were non-responders. Nineteen (82.6%) had undetectable virus 12 weeks after ending treatment and remaining two (8.7%) relapsed. Adverse effects were not observed. Hence, sofosbuvir can be safely used in patients undergoing hemodialysis. Key Words: Sofosbuvir, Hemodialysis, Hepatitis C.