The condition and the treatment
Hepatitis C is a disease of the liver that is caused by the hepatitis C virus. There are 6 different types of the virus, known as genotypes. Some people who are infected with the hepatitis C virus get rid of it quickly without treatment but most people develop a long‑lasting infection; this is called chronic hepatitis C. People who have chronic hepatitis C may feel well for many years, but the virus causes damage to their liver later and can make them feel ill.
Sofosbuvir (also known as Sovaldi) is a drug used to treat all 6 genotypes of the hepatitis C virus. It is taken with other drugs (peginterferon alfa and ribavirin, or ribavirin alone) and can get rid of the hepatitis C virus from the body.
NHS Choices (www.nhs.uk) may be a good place to find out more.