Compare Viekira XR vs. Olysio

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, ratings, and more.

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A combination of 3 different medicines that treats hepatitis C infection.

Viekira XR (ombitasvir, paritaprevir, ritonavir, and dasabuvir) is a once daily drug regimen consisting of 3 pills a day that are effective against genotype 1 hepatitis C virus, but may not be a good option if you have liver problems.

Treats hepatitis C infection.

Olysio (simeprevir) is effective in treating chronic hepatitis C, but it must be used with other antiviral medicines.

Upsides
  • Unlike Viekira Pak, Viekira XR (ombitasvir, paritaprevir, ritonavir, and dasabuvir) is only three pills that is taken all at once.
  • Similar to Viekira Pak, Viekira XR (ombitasvir, paritaprevir, ritonavir, and dasabuvir) has a 95% to 100% cure rate.
  • Common side effects are manageable and include feeling nauseous, tired, itching, or rash.
  • Viekira XR (ombitasvir, paritaprevir, ritonavir, and dasabuvir) can also be used to treat genotype 1 hepatitis C if you have a liver transplant.
  • Most people who take Olysio (simeprevir) together with other antiviral medicines have good results, with no signs of virus found in their blood three months later.
  • Unlike some other hepatitis C medications, you can take Olysio (simeprevir) even if you are taking an acid reflux medication.
  • Can take Olysio (simeprevir) for a shorter amount of time than other hepatitis C medications.
  • Has less side effects than some hepatitis C medications.
Downsides
  • Viekira XR (ombitasvir, paritaprevir, ritonavir, and dasabuvir) is a combination of 3 different medications which may be hard to take if you don't like swallowing a lot of pills.
  • You may need to take an additional medication called ribavirin with Viekira XR (ombitasvir, paritaprevir, ritonavir, and dasabuvir).
  • If you are taking ethinyl estradiol-containing medications, you will need another form of birth control during and for 2 weeks after using Viekira XR (ombitasvir, paritaprevir, ritonavir, and dasabuvir).
  • Should not be used if you experienced severe rash after taking ritonavir (Norvir).
  • Your doctor will need to take frequent blood tests during the first 4 weeks, and periodically after to monitor your liver function.
  • There's no generic available, so it can be very expensive.
  • Olysio (simeprevir) should not be used alone, it must be used together with other antiviral medicines.
  • There are many interactions between Olysio (simeprevir) and other drugs and herbal supplements. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before starting any new medications.
  • Olysio (simeprevir) can cause a rash if you're out in the sun, so you'll have to use sunblock or wear protective clothing.
  • Olysio (simeprevir) only works with one specific type of hepatitis C, unlike others that treat all 6 types.
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Used for
  • Hepatitis C infection genotype 1
Dosage forms
  • Pill
  • Pill
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Reviews
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Side effects
6possible side effects
  • Fatigue
    34%
  • Nausea
    22%
  • Itching
    18%
  • Skin reactions
    16%
  • Trouble sleeping
    14%
  • Weakness/Lack of energy
    14%
See more detailed side effects
5possible side effects
  • Rash
    28%
  • Itchy skin
    22%
  • Nausea
    22%
  • Muscle pain
    16%
  • Trouble breathing
    12%
See more detailed side effects
Risks and risk factors
  • Hepatitis B reactivation
    • Hepatitis B infection
  • Serious liver problems and complications
    • Moderate to severe liver disease (Child Pugh B or C)
  • Raised liver blood tests
    • Taking estrogen containing medications
  • Ribavirin warnings
  • Drug interactions
  • HIV resistance
    • HIV infection
See more detailed risks and warnings
  • Hepatitis B reactivation
    • History of hepatitis B infection
  • Slow heart rate
    • Amiodarone
    • Beta blockers
    • Heart disease
    • Liver disease
  • Drug interactions
    • Rifampin
    • St. John's wort
  • Ribavirin combination treatment
    • Taking ribavirin with Olysio (simeprevir)
  • Skin problems
    • Taking Olysio (simeprevir) in combination with rivabirin and peg-interferon alfa
See more detailed risks and warnings
Learn more about Viekira XR (ombitasvir, paritaprevir, ritonavir, and dasabuvir)
Learn more about Olysio (simeprevir)