Advances in treatment of chronic hepatitis C: 'pegylated' interferons

Abstract

New regimens consisting of pegylated interferons plus ribavirin may produce a sustained virologic response in more than 50% of cases of chronic hepatitis C. In contrast, the combination of standard interferon alfa and ribavirin, which was the standard of care until recently, produced a sustained virologic response in 35% to 40% of cases. As the efficacy of newer regimens improves, additional steps to adequately manage their side effects and maximize adherence may become crucial.