Shortening the duration of therapy for chronic hepatitis C infection

Lancet Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2017 Nov;2(11):832-836. doi: 10.1016/S2468-1253(17)30053-5. Epub 2017 Aug 10.

Abstract

Combination direct-acting antiviral therapy of 8-24 weeks is highly effective for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C infection. However, shortening the treatment duration to less than 8 weeks could potentially reduce overall treatment costs and improve adherence. Here we explore the arguments for and against the development of short-duration regimens and existing data on treatment for 6 weeks or less among patients with chronic hepatitis C virus genotype 1 infection. Additionally, we identify potential predictors of response to short-course combination therapies with direct-acting antiviral drugs that might be explored in future clinical trials.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antiviral Agents / administration & dosage*
  • Antiviral Agents / economics
  • Cost Savings
  • Drug Administration Schedule
  • Drug Costs
  • Drug Therapy, Combination
  • Hepatitis C, Chronic / drug therapy*
  • Humans
  • Medication Adherence
  • Sustained Virologic Response
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Antiviral Agents