Drug Guide
Daclatasvir Dihydrochloride
Classification
Therapeutic: Antiviral (HCV NS5A replication complex inhibitor)
Pharmacological: NS5A replication complex inhibitor
FDA Approved Indications
- Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 infection
Mechanism of Action
Daclatasvir inhibits HCV NS5A protein, which plays a crucial role in viral RNA replication and virion assembly, thereby preventing viral replication.
Dosage and Administration
Adult: 60 mg once daily, with or without food.
Pediatric: Not approved for use in individuals under 18 years.
Geriatric: No specific dosage adjustment recommended, but monitor for tolerability.
Renal Impairment: No adjustment needed for mild to moderate impairment; limited data on severe impairment.
Hepatic Impairment: Use with caution; no dose adjustment for mild impairment, contraindicated in severe impairment.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Rapidly absorbed, peak plasma levels in about 2 hours.
Distribution: Wide tissue distribution, plasma protein binding approximately 99%.
Metabolism: Primarily metabolized in the liver via CYP3A4/5, with some contribution from CYP2C8.
Excretion: Excreted mainly in feces (~90%) and urine (~6%).
Half Life: Approximately 12-15 hours.
Contraindications
- Concurrent use with strong CYP3A inducers (e.g., rifampin, carbamazepine).
- Hypersensitivity to daclatasvir or any component of the formulation.
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment.
- Monitor for drug interactions, especially with medications affecting CYP3A4.
Adverse Reactions - Common
- Headache (Common)
- Fatigue (Common)
- Nausea (Common)
Adverse Reactions - Serious
- Bradycardia (when used with amiodarone) (Serious but infrequent)
- Elevated liver enzymes (Serious)
Drug-Drug Interactions
- Strong CYP3A inducers or inhibitors (e.g., rifampin, ketoconazole, clarithromycin)
Drug-Food Interactions
- Grapefruit and grapefruit juice may increase plasma levels of daclatasvir.
Drug-Herb Interactions
N/ANursing Implications
Assessment: Monitor liver function tests, assess for signs of hepatitis or liver failure.
Diagnoses:
- Risk for infection due to hepatic impairment.
- Knowledge deficit related to medication use.
Implementation: Administer as prescribed, monitor for adverse reactions, and educate patient about adherence and potential side effects.
Evaluation: Assess viral load reduction and liver function tests to evaluate treatment efficacy.
Patient/Family Teaching
- Take medication exactly as prescribed, without missing doses.
- Report symptoms such as fatigue, jaundice, or severe nausea.
- Avoid grapefruit or grapefruit juice during therapy.
- Attend all follow-up appointments for monitoring.
Special Considerations
Black Box Warnings:
- There are no black box warnings for daclatasvir.
Genetic Factors: None specific.
Lab Test Interference: None known.
Overdose Management
Signs/Symptoms: N/A - overdose data limited; monitor for adverse effects.
Treatment: Supportive care, discontinue medication, and provide symptomatic treatment as needed.
Storage and Handling
Storage: Store at room temperature 20-25°C (68-77°F).
Stability: Stable under recommended storage conditions, protected from moisture and light.