Epclusa and Insomnia: What Users Say

• Jef...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• April 23, 2021

For Hepatitis C "I just finished my 12th and final week of taking Epclusa one week ago. I probably got Hep C in the Army during the early 1970s. I am now 68 years old. These are the side effects that I noticed: Brain Fog. Just not able to think clearly and rationally. Insomnia. I had to get medication to sleep. My normal libido was gone soon after starting Epclusa. I have had no sex with my wife or even the slightest desire to have sex. I will not know if the Epclusa got rid of the Hep C for another 3 weeks when I have the first Blood Test. Currently, I am just wondering if I will ever feel normal again. I still feel like I am on the Epclusa. Talking to my doctor is a waste of time. She does not believe that Epclusa caused any of the problems that I am having."

• Mar...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• December 15, 2021

For Hepatitis C "I thought my 12-week treatment on Epclusa was going really hard on me. Apparently, I had had Hep C in my body with no symptoms for 45 years from a blood transfusion. Was tested for it in routine tests and then had a liver biopsy, which showed only level one liver damage. I had, during treatment, and still suffer from extreme fatigue, memory issues, and insomnia. If I had ever dreamed how my life would change for the worse, I would never have taken the first pill! The only positive is that I am now free of Hep C, which I had apparently had for 45 years without symptoms. I am 79 years old and believe I could have lived the remaining years of my life without Epclusa!"

• Anonymous
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• April 14, 2019

For Hepatitis C "65-year-old Geno 3. It is 6 months since I finished Epclusa, and I have a loss of hearing in my right ear, nausea, numb fingers, and can't sleep. I got rid of the virus, but I really did feel better BEFORE I did the treatment. Liver clinic and doctors are no help whatsoever, no one seems to know anything except that these horrible feelings won't be going away, and I feel like a guinea pig. I can't get any help, no one cares. Gilead makes money. I had this treatment here in Australia."

• jjj...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• March 19, 2019

For Hepatitis C "I completed the 3 months of Epclusa treatment in December 2018 for my Hep C. It is now March 2019, and the side effects are worse now. I have constant buzzing in my head/ears (tinnitus), numbness and tingling, internal shakiness, insomnia, brain fog, feeling very weak, depression, and back pain. I regret taking Epclusa. I felt better before the treatment. I have gone to a naturopathic practitioner, chiropractor, and acupuncturist to try to help, but it is not any better. I don't know what to do at this point, and it is scary."

• Jes...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• September 26, 2017

For Hepatitis C "So I took 12 weeks of Epclusa for genotype 3a (viral load-3 million). The Epclusa did do the trick to get rid of the Hep C, however, I did experience and still do experience side effects. While I was on treatment, I experienced tingling, nerve pain, irritability, insomnia, ear ringing, etc. The ear ringing and ear issues remain a problem after 7 months off of the meds. I urge everyone to report side effects to the FDA. When I reported them to my doctor, I was told NO ONE else had those side effects...and I felt like I was crazy. The only way they will have a list of the accurate side effects is if they are reported to the FDA and Gilead. This helps other patients not feel so alone. All in all, it solved the main issue I suppose--"

• exh...
• August 14, 2019

For Hepatitis C "Was diagnosed four months ago with Hep C, it was a complete shock. Terrified, but my doctor assured me it would be fine in time. The medication at first caused extreme fatigue, restlessness, and inability to sleep. Late in the day, I would feel more energetic, so I began to take my medication at 8 pm to sleep through side effects. It helped tremendously. I returned to almost normal levels of energy. I am four weeks post-treatment, terrified because I am so exhausted that doing ADLs is about all that I can manage most days. I am terrified that the treatment was more destructive to my body than the disease. My review is mixed, my viral load is undetectable, that is success."

• Say...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• September 17, 2019

For Hepatitis C "I was taking it in the morning, and that isn’t a good idea. I felt sick all day long 'til about 4 pm, then I got my energy back, so I take it at night now. I do have insomnia, but it’s getting better. I started it on Aug 19, 2019. The brain fog is getting worse as I take the medication. Drink lots of water or I get a sick feeling and nauseous. My joint pain and fatigue are better. My eyes turn blue about 20 minutes after taking the medication, and I get this odd feeling all through my body after I take it. I only say it’s like you feel the medication working on fighting the virus. I have had depression just start 9-10-2019. I can say I feel more there except when the brain fog kicks in, and I have serious worry it won’t go away. My lymph nodes are swollen, but they are going down. I’m glad I finally got to fight this virus, I honestly can’t wait for these 12 weeks to be over."

• Gra...
• September 20, 2019

For Hepatitis C "I’m on my fourth day. So far, no side effects, no headache, fatigue, nausea, insomnia, or diarrhea, nothing. I put this off after my trip thinking I was going to feel terrible after reading all the reviews. Maybe it’s too soon to tell, I’ll update later."

• Hep...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• January 27, 2019

For Hepatitis C "I took Epclusa for 12 weeks. The first few weeks, I didn't have many side effects. After about a month, I started having a lot of weird dreams and not sleeping well. Began having fatigue and brain fog. I thought I was going to get through the 12 weeks with somewhat mild side effects. About the tenth week, I started having severe fatigue, severe memory issues (brain fog). I could not wait to get through the last three weeks. It almost had me demobilized."

• ale...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• June 1, 2021

For Hepatitis C "I do not usually Google side effects, etc., for fear of psychosomatic symptoms, but after 6 weeks on the drug, I am losing my mind. It is a relief to read these reviews. Headaches (when I rarely had them prior), absolutely no energy. Weight loss - the nightmare begins when I try to sleep - sleep? LOL - massive insomnia. My feet and hands tingle, resulting in my having to walk around. The tingling disappears when I move. Anxiety, depression, unable to focus - I am on my way to secure a Valium script :("

• Tay...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• November 7, 2019

For Hepatitis C "I am on month two. It has been very rough. A lot of nausea, diarrhea, night sweats, flu-like symptoms, insomnia, chest pain, blisters on the inside of my mouth, itchy skin, hot flashes... it hasn't gotten any better. I am forever grateful though. I am diagnosed with genotype 3A. I am still in F1 but almost F2 (mild scarring). I was denied treatment for 4 years or so, and they finally approved me. I don't care what I go through now, as long as I am hep C free. My last labs are almost clear of hep C. Keep fighting!!!"

• Ilo...
• April 5, 2017

For Hepatitis C "I've had Hep C for 42 years, unknown to me. Had an ocular migraine and ended up in the hospital to find I had low platelets, which led to Hep C diagnosis. First month sick as can be: nausea, headache, fatigue, and insomnia. But after 4 weeks, no Hep C detected! I'm almost done with my second month, and symptoms wax and wane-mostly nausea and fatigue. Hoping that after the next month, my results are still perfect and that I am cured."

• Que...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• March 31, 2022

For Hepatitis C "Before I started taking Epclusa, I fainted and got a concussion. When I went to the hospital, I was diagnosed with Hep C. I am currently still taking Epclusa. I'm on my 3rd month of taking the medication. I've been experiencing a lack of appetite and a lack of sleep. One day, I went about 72 hours with only 4 hours of sleep between the days. I went 3 days without eating, and I'm on day 4 still no appetite. So I have to force-feed myself in order to keep myself from feeling more side effects, like headaches and weakness. I find myself crying randomly from time to time for the smallest of things. I haven't worked since I physically feel like I cannot keep myself together in order to work a shift, so I can't wait until I complete my treatment and hopefully can go back to my normal self."

• chd...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• November 21, 2019

For Hepatitis C "Diagnosed Hep C positive about 15 years ago, but have probably had it around 30 years. I am in week 10, and the worst and most consistent side effect has been insomnia. Other side effects that come and go are brain fog, depression, body aches, and weakness. The only one really bad is the insomnia. This last month has been the worst with the other symptoms, especially weakness and body aches, compounded by the worst and most consistent side effect of insomnia. Still very much worth it since my liver damage was at the worst stage right before cirrhosis. Taking this med just in time to prevent permanent liver damage certainly makes it worth it. But very grateful I only have two more weeks to go."

• F2f...
• January 13, 2017

For Hepatitis C "I just finished treatment. I am going for my blood work today. Overall, Epclusa was manageable, but I did experience very low energy days, brain fog, and insomnia. But I think that is a result of sleep deprivation. Mood fluctuations were extreme some days. Nonetheless, I feel hopeful. All blood work has been normal so far!"

• Lad...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• April 18, 2018

For Hepatitis C "I started taking Epclusa in late August 2017. Insurance covered this drug. I was diagnosed with hep C type 2 in 2002. The doctor was also shocked at how little damage my liver had. I contracted Hep C back in the late '70s or early '80s. I had 4 Rhogam shots and one blood transfusion before 1992. I'm 65 years old. The first week on Epclusa I had some stomach issues. Would HIGHLY recommend that you drink plenty of water while on this drug. The next 2 weeks I slept better than I have in years, then my insomnia came back worse than before, until about a month after I had completed the drug course. I had some odd pains through my upper back and down both arms. That happened a couple of times in the last 2 weeks. Sharp tingling sensation, that was beyond uncomfortable. It only lasted about a minute. Other than that, the side effects were tolerable considering what this disease can do to you. My last blood work was done in February, and I'm happy to say I'm cured."

• Blu...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• August 29, 2022

For Hepatitis C "I have one more month to go. I can't sleep and have diarrhea. But just overall, I feel like I don't want to finish, but I've gone this far. I'm 64, disabled, so I just have to make myself get up. Depression getting worse!"

• Deb...
• February 26, 2017

For Hepatitis C "I've been on Epclusa for 7 weeks now. It has been difficult for me... I won't lie. Joint pain, toe and fingertip neuropathy, constant ear ringing, insomnia. Much better than interferon/riba that I did in 2003... I'm so tired I can't keep my eyes open. But my numbers looked good... hoping the side effects resolve once I stop the medication. No prior health issues. Genotype 3."

• Ano...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• December 20, 2019

For Hepatitis C "This is the 2nd day of taking this medication. I had extreme nausea and headaches, along with hot and cold chills and insomnia. I'm hoping these symptoms ease up a bit. I have been taking the medication at 8 am, but I'm thinking of switching it to bedtime. I'm just worried it will increase the insomnia."

• Dan...
• June 27, 2021

For Hepatitis C "I have had Hep C for many years. I started the Epclusa before learning about the coupon, so I am hoping it will take care of the 20% copay my insurance doesn't cover and the $350 the specialty pharmacy charges for each shipment of 28 pills. I hope that can be worked out! So, it's been almost a month using Epclusa. I don't have many symptoms, but I have experienced short and minor ringing in the ears. The worst one for me is the lack of sleep, which I did not have much problem with before! I have significant psoriasis and am hoping it will be reversed or lessened! Regardless, at least I am finally doing something about this virus that has been cooking my liver and slowly making me sicker and sicker. I would like to spend more time with my grandkids and friends before I go! Oh, I have been sober 19 years this time, and 14 years a time before with a year in between, so I have definitely lived in the bonus round for most of the life I was on my way to give up! Take care, fellow travelers!"

• Dec...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• November 22, 2022

For Hepatitis C "I found out I had Hep C in 2006. The only treatment available was ribavirin and interferon. I read too many horrible experiences that people had, so I did not treat the hepatitis C until this year when my liver showed up 22.6 FibroScan, and I was diagnosed with cirrhosis. During the time leading up to my decision for treatment, I have had numerous illnesses, and I believe they are tied to the Hep C!!! I've only been on treatment for two weeks, and my side effects have included headaches, some vivid dreams, and light sleep, for which I am getting some sleeping pills. I would also advise drinking plenty and staying hydrated. I am 63 and very grateful for the Epclusa, because I really believe a lot of my illnesses were caused by my sick liver! I think things are going to improve significantly once my liver starts to get healthy again. I have noted to come back and leave a comment at the end of my treatment. Stay strong, everybody!!!"

• Lay...
• December 12, 2020

For Hepatitis C "Male. Age 70. Got Hep C in the 70s. Could be longer because. Found out I had it in 2004. Entered a drug trial for interferon/ribavirin. Lasted 20 weeks on that and quit because of delusional thoughts, depression, sleep disorders, thyroid problems, exhaustion, aches, pains. I actually lost my job because I couldn’t cope with everyday tasks. My virus count went from 40 million to 2,000 and ALT/AST went to 3. I was informed by the doctor that if I had not cleared the virus in 20 weeks, I would not be cured by the end of the trial. So, I quit. My ALT/AST has stayed within normal range. And my viral load is still up and down but not over 40 million. Now that there are cures, I was thinking of trying a cure. My doctor is asking me to try Epclusa. But after reading all the reviews here, I don’t think it’s any better than the interferon/ribavirin (maybe worse). 12 weeks on this stuff might be easy. If I decide to take it, I’ll come back and leave a message. May the good Lord bless you."

• TRT...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• June 14, 2024

For Hepatitis C "I had a very satisfying experience with Epclusa. I have been infected with Hep C for over 30 years, but I kept holding back from the earlier cure, which I heard was not effective and painful. Recently, I decided to see a gastroenterologist who recommended Epclusa and said it was very effective with minimal side effects. I was skeptical and decided to look up the drug and came upon this website. I found out that most patients had the worst side effects, such as insomnia, stomach cramps, diarrhea, headaches, muscle aches, and worst of all, the symptoms did not go away at the end of the treatment. After much cajoling from my doctor, I decided to start the treatment around 1/2024. To my surprise, I had absolutely no side effects (not even a light headache, itching, loss of energy, insomnia, nor diarrhea). It has been 4 months since I finished my treatment and negative blood test. My advice is to exercise a lot before and during treatment (90 min daily running, walking, lifting weights)."

• Sma...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• May 1, 2018

For Hepatitis C "Just finished my first month, and here is a breakdown. Week one felt tired. Week 2-3 felt great, had a few bouts of insomnia, have gained weight, and notice I want to eat all day. If I take the medicine on an empty stomach, I get a nauseous feeling, so I now take it with food. I've also noticed if I don’t drink my daily intake of water, I feel tired. Week 4, I’ve suffered from a slight headache in the mornings but not sure if it’s due to the medicine or a sinus/allergy problem."

• Any...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• December 8, 2024

For Hepatitis C "I was diagnosed with Hep C around 2001. I was finally able to start treatment in October. Luckily, tests showed no liver damage even after all these years. I have 4 weeks to go. The first few days on Epclusa were a little rough but not unbearable, mostly felt like I had the flu. I’ve had little to no side effects and already feel better than I have in 20 years. I have occasional headaches and insomnia. My viral load before treatment was over 2 million. After 6 weeks, it was down to 20, almost undetectable. My doctor is confident it will be undetectable after treatment. Four more weeks to go, and I am so happy to finally be able to live without this virus in my body. Whatever side effects I’ve had have been worth it. Also, my insurance covered most, and I received a coupon to bring my cost down to a $5 co-pay. I’d urge anyone to stick with the treatment. The meds are ridding your body of a deadly virus, so it’s bound to have a few effects, but for me, it’s more than worth it."