Sovaprevir

Sovaprevir is an experimental drug candidate for the treatment of Hepatitis C. It is a protease inhibitor, specifically targeting the NS3/4A protease of the Hepatitis C virus (HCV). Sovaprevir was developed by Achillion Pharmaceuticals, a biopharmaceutical company focused on the discovery, development and commercialization of innovative treatments for infectious diseases.

History

Sovaprevir was first announced by Achillion Pharmaceuticals in 2010 as part of their pipeline of drugs for the treatment of Hepatitis C. The drug entered Phase 1 clinical trials in 2011, with results indicating a potential for high efficacy in treating HCV.

Mechanism of Action

As a protease inhibitor, sovaprevir works by binding to the NS3/4A protease of the HCV, preventing it from functioning properly. This inhibits the replication of the virus, thereby reducing the viral load in the patient's body.

Clinical Trials

Sovaprevir has undergone several phases of clinical trials. In Phase 1 trials, it demonstrated a strong ability to reduce viral load in patients with HCV. However, in 2013, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) placed a clinical hold on the Phase 2 trial of sovaprevir due to potential safety concerns. The hold was lifted in 2015, and the trial resumed.

Potential Side Effects

As with any drug, sovaprevir has the potential to cause side effects. In clinical trials, the most common side effects reported were fatigue, headache, and nausea. More serious side effects, such as liver damage, were also reported, leading to the temporary hold on the Phase 2 trial by the FDA.

Current Status

As of 2021, sovaprevir is still in the experimental stages and has not been approved for use by any regulatory authority. Achillion Pharmaceuticals continues to conduct research and clinical trials to further evaluate the safety and efficacy of the drug.