Ombitasvir, paritaprevir, and ritonavir plus dasabuvir for 8 weeks in previously untreated patients with hepatitis C virus genotype 1b infection without cirrhosis (GARNET): a single-arm, open-label, phase 3b trial

Revolutionizing hepatitis C treatment: next-gen direct-acting antivirals

INTRODUCTION

With the introduction of highly effective and safe therapies with next-generation direct-acting antivirals (DAAs), that act without interferon, hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection remains the only treatable chronic infectious disease.

AREAS COVERED

The review aims to provide an overview of the therapy revolution with a description of specific DAAs, their mechanisms of action, a summary of the safety and efficacy of specific regimens, and a discussion of populations requiring special therapeutic approaches.

EXPERT OPINION

DAAs are highly effective, safe, and easy to use. However, challenges such as access to health services and loss of patients from the cascade of care, especially in groups disproportionately affected by HCV infection, such as substance abusers, make it difficult to achieve the WHO's goal of HCV elimination. The proposed strategy to combat these difficulties involves a one-step approach to diagnosing and treating the infection, the availability of long-lasting forms of medication, and the development of an effective vaccine. The aforementioned opportunities are all the more important as the world is facing an opioid epidemic that is translating into an increase in HCV prevalence. This phenomenon is of greatest concern in women of childbearing age and in those already pregnant due to treatment limitations.

Decade of optimizing therapy with direct-acting antiviral drugs and the changing profile of patients with chronic hepatitis C

Chronic infection with the hepatitis C virus (HCV) remains a major health problem affecting approximately 58 million people worldwide. In the era of interferon (IFN)-based regimens, patients particularly infected with genotypes 1 and 4 achieved a low response rate. The implementation of direct-acting antivirals changed the landscape of HCV treatment. The increase in effectiveness provided us with the hope of eliminating HCV as a significant public threat by 2030. In the following years, there was an observed improvement in the treatment of HCV with genotype-specific regimens and highly effective pangenotypic options that are the most recent stage of the revolution. The optimization of therapy was accompanied by changes in the patient profile from the beginning of the IFN-free era over time. Patients treated with antiviral therapies were younger in successive periods, less burdened with comorbidities and comedications, more frequently treatment-naïve and had less advanced liver disease. Before the IFN-free era, specific subpopulations such as patients with HCV/HIV coinfection, those with a history of previous treatment, patients with renal impairment or with cirrhosis had lower chances for a virologic response. Currently, these populations should no longer be considered difficult to treat. Despite the high effectiveness of HCV therapy, there is a small percentage of patients with treatment failure. However, they can be effectively retreated with pangenotypic rescue regimens.

Best therapy for the easiest to treat hepatitis C virus genotype 1b-infected patients

BACKGROUND

The revolution in treatment of patients with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection dates back to the introduction of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs). The increase in efficacy was most pronounced in patients infected with genotype (GT) 1b, as this was the most poorly responsive population to treatment during the interferon era.

AIM

To identify the most effective interferon-free therapy for GT1b-infected patients and to determine positive and negative predictors of virological response.

METHODS

This real-world retrospective analysis included patients chronically infected with GT1b HCV whose data were obtained from the multicenter observational EpiTer-2 database. Treatment effectiveness was evaluated for each therapeutic regimen as the percentage of sustained virological responses (SVR). Assessment of the safety was based on the evaluation of the course of therapy, the occurrence of adverse events including serious ones, deaths during treatment and in the post 12-wk follow-up period.

RESULTS

The studied population consisted of 11385 patients with a mean age of 53 ± 14.8 years and a female predominance (53.4%). The majority of them were treatment-naïve (74.6%) and patients with cirrhosis accounted for 24.3%. Of the DAA regimens used, 76.9% were GT-specific with ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir + dasabuvir ± ribavirin being the most used option (32.4%). A total of 10903 patients responded to treatment resulting in a 98.1% in the per-protocol analysis after excluding 273 patients without SVR data. The effectiveness of all regimens exceeded 90% and the highest SVR of 98.9% was achieved in patients treated with a combination of glecaprevir/pibrentasvir. Logistic regression analyses showed that the virologic response was independently associated with female sex [odds ratio (OR) = 1.67], absence of decompensated cirrhosis at baseline (OR = 2.42) and higher baseline platelets (OR = 1.004 per 1000/μL increase), while the presence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) coinfection significantly decreased the odds of response (OR = 0.39). About 95%-100% of patients completed therapy irrespective of the drug regimen. At least one adverse effect occurred in 10.9%-36.3% and most of them were mild. No treatment related deaths have been reported.

CONCLUSION

We documented very high effectiveness and a good safety profile across all DAA regimens. Positive predictors of SVR were female sex, absence of decompensated cirrhosis at baseline and higher platelet count while HIV coinfection reduced the effectiveness.

Efficacy and safety of direct-acting antiviral therapy for hepatitis C virus in elderly patients (≥65 years old): A systematic review and meta-analysis

Direct-acting agents (DAAs) have launched a new era of hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment. As aged individuals comprise a large percentage of HCV-infected patients, the effectiveness and safety of DAAs in the elderly have come under scrutiny. This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of DAAs in elderly patients. After a systematic search in PubMed (MEDLINE), Embase, OVID MEDLINE, the Cochrane Library and other databases, two investigators reviewed relevant abstracts and selected manuscripts for examination. The sustained virologic response (SVR) and adverse event (AE) rates were calculated with a random-effects model. Ninety studies evaluating SVR rates of elderly patients (≥65 years old) receiving DAAs were selected. DAAs in elderly patients exhibited a notable SVR rate of 96% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 95%-97%), accompanied by comparable rates in subgroup analyses. The comparison of SVR rates in elderly and non-elderly patients indicated no significant discrepancy (odds ratio [OR] 1.01, 95% CI: 1.00-1.01). The overall event rate of AEs was 45% (95% CI: 31%-60%), though AE rates varied by subgroups. Furthermore, AEs were comparatively more frequent (OR 1.15, 95% CI: 1.04-1.28) in the elderly than non-elderly, especially in subgroups such as SAE (OR 1.89, 95% CI: 1.52-2.36) and dose reduction in ribavirin (OR 1.90, 95% CI: 1.53-2.36). However, in the ribavirin (RBV)-free regimen, there was no significant difference in the incidence of AEs between the elderly and non-elderly groups. DAAs have high efficacy in elderly patients. Considering the possibility of AE, the RBV-free regimen should be given prior consideration for the treatment of elderly patients with HCV.

Changing epidemiology of patients treated with direct acting antivirals for HCV and persistently high SVR12 in an endemic area for HCV infection in Italy: real-life 'LIver Network Activity' (LINA) cohort update results

BACKGROUND

Second generation direct acting antivirals (DAAs) drastically changed the landscape of chronic HCV (CHCV). Aim of this paper was to assess the effectiveness of DAAs, also looking at the demographic characteristics of subjects enrolled.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Ambispective multi-center real-life study conducted among patients with CHCV treated with DAAs in Campania Region (Southern Italy). Patient were enrolled in two cohorts according to time of enrolment.

RESULTS

1,479 patients were enrolled. Patients aged ≥60 years were 74.7% in the historic cohort (953 patients) and 70.2% in the prospective cohort (526 patients. Patients aged ≥ 60 years showed a higher prevalence of genotype 1b (p<0.001) and 2 (p<0.001), while patients aged < 60 years showed a higher prevalence of genotype 1a (p<0.001), 3 (p<0.001) and 4 (p<0.05). SVR12 was 98.5% in both cohorts. SVR12 was similar among patients of the prospective cohort aged < and ≥ 60 years (99.4% vs 98.1%). SVR12 among patients with and without cirrhosis was 96.0% and 98.9%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

DAAs provide high efficacy also in harder to treat patients. The effectiveness of DAAs is leading to a shift in patients characteristics with a greater prevalence of younger subjects and persons with mild liver disease.

Strategic treatment optimization for HCV (STOPHCV1): a randomised controlled trial of ultrashort duration therapy for chronic hepatitis C

Background: The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified the need for a better understanding of which patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) can be cured with ultrashort course HCV therapy. Methods: A total of 202 individuals with chronic HCV were randomised to fixed-duration shortened therapy (8 weeks) vs variable-duration ultrashort strategies (VUS1/2). Participants not cured following first-line treatment were retreated with 12 weeks' sofosbuvir/ledipasvir/ribavirin. The primary outcome was sustained virological response 12 weeks (SVR12) after first-line treatment and retreatment. Participants were factorially randomised to receive ribavirin with first-line treatment. Results: All evaluable participants achieved SVR12 overall (197/197, 100% [95% CI 98-100]) demonstrating non-inferiority between fixed-duration and variable-duration strategies (difference 0% [95% CI -3.8%, +3.7%], 4% pre-specified non-inferiority margin). First-line SVR12 was 91% [86%-97%] (92/101) for fixed-duration vs 48% [39%-57%] (47/98) for variable-duration, but was significantly higher for VUS2 (72% [56%-87%] (23/32)) than VUS1 (36% [25%-48%] (24/66)). Overall, first-line SVR12 was 72% [65%-78%] (70/101) without ribavirin and 68% [61%-76%] (69/98) with ribavirin (p=0.48). At treatment failure, the emergence of viral resistance was lower with ribavirin (12% [2%-30%] (3/26)) than without (38% [21%-58%] (11/29), p=0.01). Conclusions: Unsuccessful first-line short-course therapy did not compromise retreatment with sofosbuvir/ledipasvir/ribavirin (100% SVR12). SVR12 rates were significantly increased when ultrashort treatment varied between 4-7 weeks rather than 4-6 weeks. Ribavirin significantly reduced resistance emergence in those failing first-line therapy. ISRCTN Registration: 37915093 (11/04/2016).

Strategic treatment optimization for HCV (STOPHCV1): a randomised controlled trial of ultrashort duration therapy for chronic hepatitis C

Background: The world health organization (WHO) has identified the need for a better understanding of which patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) can be cured with ultrashort course HCV therapy. Methods: A total of 202 individuals with chronic HCV were randomised to fixed-duration shortened therapy (8 weeks) vs variable-duration ultrashort strategies (VUS1/2). Participants not cured following first-line treatment were retreated with 12 weeks' sofosbuvir/ledipasvir/ribavirin. The primary outcome was sustained virological response 12 weeks (SVR12) after first-line treatment and retreatment. Participants were factorially randomised to receive ribavirin with first-line treatment. Results: All evaluable participants achieved SVR12 overall (197/197, 100% [95% CI 98-100]) demonstrating non-inferiority between fixed-duration and variable-duration strategies (difference 0% [95% CI -3.8%, +3.7%], 4% pre-specified non-inferiority margin). First-line SVR12 was 91% [86%-97%] (92/101) for fixed-duration vs 48% [39%-57%] (47/98) for variable-duration, but was significantly higher for VUS2 (72% [56%-87%] (23/32)) than VUS1 (36% [25%-48%] (24/66)). Overall, first-line SVR12 was 72% [65%-78%] (70/101) without ribavirin and 68% [61%-76%] (69/98) with ribavirin (p=0.48). At treatment failure, the emergence of viral resistance was lower with ribavirin (12% [2%-30%] (3/26)) than without (38% [21%-58%] (11/29), p=0.01). Conclusions: Unsuccessful first-line short-course therapy did not compromise retreatment with sofosbuvir/ledipasvir/ribavirin (100% SVR12). SVR12 rates were significantly increased when ultrashort treatment varied between 4-7 weeks rather than 4-6 weeks. Ribavirin significantly reduced resistance emergence in those failing first-line therapy. ISRCTN Registration: 37915093 (11/04/2016).

Discontinuation of new hepatitis C drugs among Medicare patients

OBJECTIVES

To examine factors associated with discontinuation of new hepatitis C drugs-second-generation direct-acting antivirals (DAAs)-among Medicare beneficiaries with chronic hepatitis C.

STUDY DESIGN

A retrospective analysis using 2014-2016 Medicare claims.

METHODS

The study population was patients with chronic hepatitis C in fee-for-service Medicare with Part D who initiated a DAA therapy between January 1, 2014, and September 1, 2016. We defined discontinuation of DAA therapy as filling prescriptions for fewer weeks than the expected duration of the DAA identified. We estimated adjusted odds ratios (aORs) of DAA discontinuation by patient characteristics using multivariable logistic regression. We estimated the model separately for patients with a Part D low-income subsidy (LIS) and those without an LIS.

RESULTS

Of 82,056 patients who initiated a DAA therapy during the study period, 5171 (6.3%) did not complete the therapy. Discontinuation rates varied across DAAs, ranging from 4.7% (elbasvir/grazoprevir) to 11.8% (ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir/dasabuvir). Women with an LIS were more likely to discontinue DAA therapy than men with an LIS (aOR, 1.16; 95% CI, 1.08-1.25; P <.01). Non-LIS black and Hispanic patients had higher odds of discontinuation than non-LIS white patients (black: aOR, 1.49; 95% CI, 1.28-1.73; P <.01; Hispanic: aOR, 1.56; 95% CI, 1.01-2.44; P <.05). High comorbidity index score increased the odds of DAA discontinuation among patients with an LIS.

CONCLUSIONS

Real-world discontinuation of DAA therapy was low, but it was 3 times more likely than in clinical trials and varied by patient characteristics. Efforts to increase DAA adherence would help lower patients' risk of developing resistance to future treatments and reduce potential waste of resources.

Natural prevalence of NS3 gene resistance-associated substitutions (RASs) in patients with chronic hepatitis C from the state of Pará/Brazil

The resistance of hepatitis C virus (HCV) to direct-acting antiviral agents, used in chronic hepatitis C treatment, consists of a natural process resulting from resistance-associated substitutions (RASs) at specific amino acid regions. To identify and establish the natural prevalence of RASs in the NS3 gene in patients with chronic hepatitis C in the state of Pará, northern Brazil. Molecular analysis was performed on a total of 35 patients infected with HCV genotype 1, who were treatment-naive to protease inhibitors. HCV RNA was extracted from plasma and the NS3 region was amplified and submitted to DNA sequencing (Sanger). The general natural prevalence of RASs in the NS3 gene was 37.5 % (Y56F and S122T). The substitutions Y56F (34.3 %), S122T (3.1 %), V132I (15.6 %) and V170I (9.3 %) were identified. Y56F and S122T provide resistance to the protease inhibitors grazoprevir and simeprevir, respectively. All amino acid substitutions in the NS3 gene, including RASs, identified in patients from the state of Pará were present in other Brazilian studies. The natural presence of RASs in this study reflects the elevated genetic variability of HCV.

A prospective, multicenter, post-marketing observational study to measure the quality of life of HCV genotype 1 infected, treatment naïve patients suffering from fatigue and receiving 3D regimen: The HEMATITE study

Aim

Fatigue is the most commonly reported symptom of Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) infected patients and severely impacts their quality of life. The aim of this study was to measure the impact of 3D regimen treatment on the fatigue, daytime physical activity and sleep efficiency of HCV infected patients with fatigue.

Methods

HEMATITE was an observational, prospective, open-label, single-arm, Swiss multi-centric study in mono-infected HCV genotype 1 patients. The 28 week observation period comprised of 4 weeks preparation, 12 weeks treatment and 12 weeks follow-up. Fatigue was assessed using the fatigue severity scale (FSS) questionnaire. Patients with FSS ≥ 4 (clinically significant fatigue) were included. The activity tracker, ActiGraph GT9X Link^®, was used to measure daytime physical activity and sleep efficiency. Outcome analysis was performed on a scaled down intention to treat (sdITT) population, which excluded patients with insufficient tracker data at all study visits and a modified ITT (mITT) population, which consisted of patients with complete tracker data at all study visits.

Results

Forty of 41 patients in the ITT population had a sustained virologic response 12 weeks post-treatment (SVR12). Mean baseline FSS score was 6.0 for the sdITT population and 5.9 for the mITT population and decreased from baseline to 12 weeks post-treatment by 2.6 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.1, 3.1) for the sdITT (n = 37) population and 2.8 (95% CI: 2.2, 3.4) for the mITT (n = 24) population. Mean daytime physical activity or sleep efficiency did not change considerably over the course of the study.

Conclusion

Measurement by the activity tracker of mean day time physical activity did not show a considerable change from baseline to SVR12 upon treatment with 3D regimen. Nevertheless, a reduction of fatigue as assessed with the validated fatigue severity scale (FSS) was observed, suggesting a causative role of HCV in this extrahepatic manifestation.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier:NCT03002818.

Phase 3, Multicenter Open-Label study to investigate the efficacy of elbasvir and grazoprevir fixed-dose combination for 8 weeks in treatment-naïve, HCV GT1b-infected patients, with non-severe fibrosis

BACKGROUND

Genotype 1b is the most common HCV genotype worldwide, accounting for the largest proportion of infections in Europe, Russia, Latin America and Asia. Reducing treatment duration can improve adherence, reduce drug exposure and cost. Accordingly, we evaluated the efficacy of 8 weeks fixed-dose combination of grazoprevir-elbasvir in treatment-naïve patients, with non-severe fibrosis.

METHODS

HCV mono-infected and treatment naïve patients with non-severe fibrosis (Fibroscan^® <9.5 kPa and Fibrotest^®  < 0.59) were enrolled in a study which included 117 patients. Genotyping by sequencing identified five patients with non-1b genotype (two GT1a, one GT1h, one GT1e and one GT1l). Thus, we included in the final analysis 112 GT1b patients. The primary end point was the proportion of patients with HCVRNA below the lower limit of quantification 12 weeks after treatment (SVR12).

FINDINGS

Mean age was 54 ± 13 years, 31% were men and viral load was higher than 800.000 IU/mL in 70 of 112 patients (63%). Using Fibroscan^® , 100 had F0-1 fibrosis score. FIB-4 lower than 1.45 and APRI less than 1 was found in 74/112 (66%) and 107/112 (95%) patients respectively. Relapse occurred in three patients by week 12. These three patients had a viral load higher than 6 million IU/mL and NS5A Y93H RAS (resistance-associated substitution). Then, modified intention-to-treat SVR12 for patients with genotype 1b was 109/112 (97%). By week 24; five relapses were observed and all had the Y93H RAS at relapse. SVR12 was achieved in 100% of patients with a baseline viral load below 6 million and decreased to 98% (98/100) by follow-up week 24.

INTERPRETATION

Naïve patients with genotype 1b and non-severe fibrosis can achieve an SVR12 of 97% and an SVR24 of 95%. Then, these patients can be treated with grazoprevir-elbasvir for 8 weeks.

Management of hepatitis B and hepatitis C coinfection: an expert review

INTRODUCTION

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections share common routes of transmission. HBV/HCV coinfection can lead to interactions affecting mechanisms of infection and therapy.

AREAS COVERED

In the review, we present epidemiology of HBV/HCV coinfection and current therapeutic options for both viruses. The possibility of drug-drug interactions during the treatment of coinfected patients is discussed. However, the major part of the review is dedicated to interactions between viruses and risk of HBV reactivation during HCV treatment with direct-acting antivirals (DAA). Finally, we analyze available international and national guidelines for the management of HBV reactivations related to DAA administration.

EXPERT OPINION

The most important international societies' guidelines include comments on HBV/HCV coinfection, but due to their inconsistency we present a proposal of management for HBV/HCV coinfected patients focusing mostly on HBV reactivation in patients treated for HCV. We provide some advice that should be considered in future guidelines for the management of HBV/HCV coinfection.

An Open-Label, Randomized, Active-Controlled Trial of 8 Versus 12 Weeks of Elbasvir/Grazoprevir for Treatment-Naive Patients With Chronic Hepatitis C Genotype 1b Infection and Mild Fibrosis (EGALITE Study): Impact of Baseline Viral Loads and NS5A Resistance-Associated Substitutions

BACKGROUND

A 12-week grazoprevir/elbasvir regimen is highly effective against hepatitis C virus genotype 1 (HCV-1) infection. The efficacy of an 8-week regimen for treatment-naive HCV-1-infected patients with mild fibrosis has not been determined.

METHODS

Treatment-naive HCV-1b-infected patients with mild fibrosis were randomly assigned to receive 8 (n = 41) or 12 (n = 41) weeks of grazoprevir/elbasvir therapy. The primary end point was a sustained virologic response, defined as an HCV RNA level of < 12 IU/mL, at posttreatment week 12 (SVR12).

RESULTS

SVR12 was achieved by 87.8% of patients (36 of 41) in the 8-week arm and 100% (41 of 41) in the 8-week arm of the full-analysis population and by 90.0% (36 of 40) and 100% (41 of 41), respectively, in the per-protocol population (all P = .055). In the 8-week arm, a significantly lower SVR12 rate was observed among patients with a high HCV-1b load, defined as ≥1 500 000 IU/mL (79% vs 100%; P = .042), and among those with a baseline Y93H resistance-associated substitution (RAS) frequency of >15% in HCV nonstructural protein 5A (NS5A; 40.0% vs 97.1%; P = .004). Between-group analysis demonstrated that, among patient with a high HCV-1b load and a baseline Y93H RAS frequency of >15%, those in the 8-week arm had a substantially lower SVR12 rate than those in the 12-week arm (40.0% vs 100.0%). All 4 HCV-1b relapses had a Y93H RAS frequency of >99% at posttreatment week 12.

CONCLUSIONS

Twelve weeks of grazoprevir/elbasvir therapy is highly effective for treatment-naive patients with mild fibrosis. A truncated, 8-week grazoprevir/elbasvir regimen might be applied for those with low viral loads or without a significant NS5A RAS frequency.

CLINICAL TRIALS REGISTRATION

NCT03186365.

2020 Taiwan consensus statement on the management of hepatitis C: part (I) general population

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection remains a major public health issue with high prevalence in Taiwan. Recently, the advent of direct-acting antiviral (DAA) agents, with higher efficacy, excellent safety profile, and truncated treatment duration, has revolutionized the paradigm of hepatitis C treatment and made HCV elimination possible. To provide timely guidance for optimal hepatitis C management, the Taiwan Association for the Study of the Liver (TASL) established an expert panel to publish a 2-part consensus statement on the management of hepatitis C in the DAA era. After comprehensive literature review and a consensus meeting, patient-oriented, genotype-guided recommendations on hepatitis C treatment for the general and special populations have been provided based on the latest indications and scientific evidence. In the first part of this consensus, we present the epidemiology and treatment situation of hepatitis C in Taiwan, the development of DAA, pre-treatment evaluation, post sustained virologic response (SVR) monitoring, and most importantly the treatment recommendations for the general population with compensated liver disease. The second part will focus on the treatment recommendations for the special populations.

Comparative effectiveness of 8 versus 12 weeks of Ombitasvir/Paritaprevir/ritonavir and Dasabuvir in treatment-naïve patients infected with HCV genotype 1b with non-advanced hepatic fibrosis

PURPOSE

Since 2017 treatment-naïve patients infected with genotype 1b of hepatitis C virus and minimal or moderate fibrosis can be treated with Ombitasvir/Paritaprevir/ritonavir + Dasabuvir (OPrD) for 8 weeks according to updated Summary of Product Characteristics. The aim of our study was to assess the comparative efficacy of 8 and 12-weeks therapy with OPrD in large cohort of patients eligible for 8 weeks regimen treated in real-world setting.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We analysed data of 3067 HCV genotype 1b infected patients treated with OPrD between 2015 and 2017. Final analysis included patients with none, minimal or moderate fibrosis (F0-F2).

RESULTS

A total of 771 patients were enrolled in the study, including 197 (26%) treated for 8-weeks and 574 patients fulfilling criteria for 8-weeks but assigned to 12-weeks regimen. Majority of patients had no or minimal fibrosis (F0-F1). Longer treatment duration was more often administered in patients with moderate fibrosis, comorbidities, concomitant medications. SVR was achieved in 186 (94%) patients treated for 8 weeks and 558 (97%) for 12 weeks (p = 0.07). After exclusion of lost to follow-up patients, sustained virological response (SVR) rate reached 95% and 99%, respectively (p = 0.01). We were not able to identify factors associated with non-response.

CONCLUSIONS

This real-word experience study confirmed similar, high effectiveness of 8 and 12-weeks regimens of OPrD in genotype 1b HCV infected patients with non-advanced fibrosis. Despite of reduced SVR rate after 8-weeks regimen, there is no need to extend therapy to 12-weeks in vast majority of such patients and no need to add ribavirin.

Viral hepatitis C treatment shortening - what is the limit?

Successful antiviral treatment for hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is crucial to prevent progression of the disease and its most serious complications. Therapy options have changed over the years with improvement of treatment efficacy, safety and simplification. They evolved from interferon and ribavirin combination administered for 24-72 weeks through interferon (IFN)-based triple therapies with 24-48 weeks duration to the all-oral, well-tolerated direct-acting antiviral regimens lasting for 8-16 weeks and with almost 100% cure rates. The benefits of shorter treatment duration are cost reduction, access to therapy for more patients, and lower risk of adverse events and nonadherence. This review summarizes data on treatment options, focusing on the recommended durations of different regimens depending on HCV genotype, severity of liver disease and history of previous therapy. According to currently available data, shortening treatment below 8 weeks does not provide additional benefits, although the further simplification of therapy is still a subject of study.

Treatment optimisation for hepatitis C in the era of combination direct-acting antiviral therapy: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background: Prior to direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapy, personalised medicine played an important role in the treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV). Whilst simplified treatment strategies are central to treatment scale-up, some patients will benefit from treatment optimisation. This systematic review and meta-analysis explores treatment optimisation strategies in the DAA era. Methods: We systematically searched Medline, Embase, and Web of Science for studies that adopted a stratified or personalised strategy using a licensed combination DAA regimen, alone or with additional agents. We performed a thematic analysis to classify optimisation strategies and a meta-analysis of sustained virologic response rates (SVR), exploring heterogeneity with subgroup analyses and meta-regression. Results: We included 64 studies (9450 participants). Thematic analysis found evidence of three approaches: duration, combination, and/or dose optimisation. We separated strategies into those aiming to maintain SVR in the absence of predictors of failure, and those aiming to improve SVR in the presence of predictors of failure. Shortened duration regimens achieve pooled SVR rates of 94.2% (92.3-95.9%) for 8 weeks, 81.1% (75.1-86.6%) for 6 weeks, and 63.1% (39.9-83.7%) for ≤4 weeks. Personalised strategies (100% vs 87.6%; p<0.001) and therapy shortened according to ≥3 host/viral factors (92.9% vs 81.4% or 87.2% for 1 or 2 host/viral factors, respectively; p=0.008) offer higher SVR rates when shortening therapy. Hard-to-treat HCV genotype 3 patients suffer lower SVR rates despite treatment optimisation (92.6% vs 98.2%; p=0.001). Conclusions: Treatment optimisation for individuals with multiple predictors of treatment failure can offer high SVR rates. More evidence is needed to identify with confidence those individuals in whom SVR can be achieved with shortened duration treatment.

[Current drug treatment of hepatitis C : Useful therapy algorithms taking into consideration economical aspects]

Treatment of chronic hepatitis C (HCV) has changed dramatically since the approval of the direct-acting antivirals (DAA). Depending on the HCV genotype and the stage of liver disease, sustained HCV clearance can be achieved in more than 95% of patients with a treatment duration of 8-12 weeks in most of the cases. The selection and combination of the drugs depends on previous antivirals therapies, the stage of liver fibrosis, HCV genotype and subtype, viral load at baseline, and renal function. Nowadays, potent antiviral therapy with minimal side effects can be offered to almost every patient. In the real-world setting, a high quality of HCV therapy considering economic aspects has been documented in the German Hepatitis C Registry. A reduction of clinical complications of chronic liver disease by clearance of HCV has already been documented.

The Efficacy and Safety of Direct-acting Antiviral Treatment for Chronic Hepatitis C Patients: A Single Center Study

Background/Aims

Direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapy has been shown to achieve a high rate of sustained virologic response (SVR) and favorable outcomes in chronic hepatitis C (CHC) patients. We investigated the virologic response and its clinical impact in CHC patients.

Methods

CHC patients with compensated liver function treated with DAAs between 2016 and 2017 were included for retrospective analysis. We analyzed baseline characteristics and virologic and biochemical responses at on-treatment 4 weeks, end of treatment, and post-treatment 12 weeks. Fibrosis was measured as liver stiffness measurement by transient elastography (FibroScan). Adverse events were monitored during the treatment period.

Results

A total of 135 patients (61.5% with genotype [GT] 1b and 38.5% with GT 2a) were enrolled 47.4% were male, 79.3% were treatment naive, and 30.4% had cirrhosis. SVR 12 was observed in 97.6% (81/83) in the GT 1b and 98.1% (51/52) in the GT 2a; treatment with daclatasvir+asunaprevir was the most commonly used in GT 1b (55/83), and sofosbuvir+ribavirin was the most commonly used in GT 2a (49/52). The median change of liver stiffness measurement at two time points using the signed rank test was -3.2 kPa in patients who underwent transient elastography before treatment and at SVR 12 (n=25). The most common adverse events were anemia, dyspepsia, and insomnia. One GT 2a patient treated with sofosbuvir+ribavirin stopped the treatment at 8 weeks due to symptomatic bradyarrhythmia; however, he recovered spontaneously and achieved SVR 12.

Conclusions

DAA treatment of chronic hepatitis C genotype 1b and 2a resulted in a high rate of sustained virologic response and improvement of liver fibrosis score.

Real-world safety and effectiveness of ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir ± dasabuvir ± ribavirin in hepatitis C virus genotype 1- and 4-infected patients with diverse comorbidities and comedications: A pooled analysis of post-marketing observational studies from 13 countries

Ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir ± dasabuvir ± ribavirin (OBV/PTV/r ± DSV ± RBV) regimens show high efficacy and good tolerability in clinical trials for chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotypes (GT) 1 or 4. To evaluate whether these results translate to clinical practice, data were pooled from observational studies across 13 countries. Treatment-naïve or -experienced patients, with or without cirrhosis, received OBV/PTV/r ± DSV ± RBV according to approved local labels and clinical practice. Sustained virologic response at post-treatment Week 12 (SVR12), adverse events (AEs) and comedication management were assessed for patients initiating treatment before 1 June 2017. The safety population included 3850 patients who received ≥1 dose of study drug. The core population (N = 3808) further excluded patients with unknown GT or cirrhosis status, or who received off-label treatment. Patients had HCV GT1a (n = 732; 19%), GT1b (n = 2619; 69%) or GT4 (n = 457; 12%). In 3546 patients with sufficient follow-up data at post-treatment Week 12, the SVR12 rate was 96% (n/N = 3401/3546 [95% CI 95.2-96.5]). In patients with or without cirrhosis, SVR12 was comparable (96%). In patients with HCV GT1a, GT1b or GT4, SVR12 rates were 93%, 97% and 94%. In GT1b-infected patients with planned treatment for 8 weeks, SVR12 was 96%. In patients with ≥1 comorbidity (67%), SVR12 was 95%. 58% of patients received ≥1 comedication, and there was minimal impact on SVR12 rates using comedications for peptic ulcers and gastro-esophageal reflux disease, statins, antipsychotics or antiepileptics. Most comedications were maintained during treatment although 58% of patients changed their statin medication. AEs and serious AEs occurred in 26% and 3% of patients. Post-baseline Grade 3-4 laboratory abnormalities were rare (<3%), and discontinuation rates were low (<4%). Real-world evidence confirms the effectiveness of OBV/PTV/r ± DSV ± RBV in patients with HCV GT1 or GT4, regardless of common comorbidities or comedications, and is consistent with clinical trial results. Adverse safety outcomes may be limited by underreporting in the real-world setting.

Eight weeks of Paritaprevir/r/Ombitasvir + Dasabuvir in HCV genotype 1b with mild-moderate fibrosis: Results from a real-world cohort

BACKGROUND & AIMS

The interferon-free regimen paritaprevir/ritonavir, ombitasvir + dasabuvir (PTV/r/OBV/DSV) has shown high efficacy in patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype 1b infection when administered for 8 or 12 weeks, but data regarding the 8-week treatment are scarce. The aim of our study was to assess the efficacy and safety of the 8-week administration of PTV/r/OBV/DSV in a real-world cohort.

METHODS

We performed a multicentre observational study from Spanish Hepa-C database including patients receiving 8 weeks of PTV/r/OBV/DSV (October 2016-November 2017). Those with advanced fibrosis, with non-genotype 1b or who were treatment-experienced were excluded.

RESULTS

A total of 211 patients were registered from 23 Spanish centres; eleven were excluded. At baseline, 42.5% (n = 85) were male, median (range) age was 57 (23-86), ALT was 45 (11-494) IU/mL, viral load was 6.1 (3.3-8.2) log10 IU/mL, and 74.5% had mild liver fibrosis (F0-F1) and 25.5% moderate fibrosis (F2). At the end of treatment (EOT), HCV viral load was undetectable in 100% (200/200). Seven patients relapsed after treatment discontinuation. Sustained virological response (SVR12) rates by intention-to-treat analysis were 96% (192/200). Regarding treatment safety, 2 patients developed ALT elevation >5x ULN, but there were no treatment discontinuations. One patient died 7 weeks after EOT.

CONCLUSION

Treatment with PTV/r/OBV/DSV in genotype 1b-infected treatment-naive patients with mild-moderate fibrosis shows excellent efficacy and safety in real life, similarly to clinical trials. Clinicaltrials.gov, number: NCT03122132.

Challenges and perspectives of direct antivirals for the treatment of hepatitis C virus infection

Treatment of chronic hepatitis C virus infection has been revolutionised by the development of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs). All-oral, once-daily, 8- to 12-week treatment regimens are now standard of care, with viral eradication possible in >95% of patients across different populations. Despite these advances, several unresolved issues remain, including treatment of patients with hepatitis C virus genotype 3, chronic kidney disease, and those in whom DAA therapy has previously failed. Glecaprevir/pibrentasvir and sofosbuvir/velpatasvir/voxilaprevir are the most recently approved DAA regimens. Given the overwhelming success of modern DAA-based therapies, glecaprevir/pibrentasvir and sofosbuvir/velpatasvir/voxilaprevir are also likely to represent the last DAAs to be approved. Both are pangenotypic, once-daily, all-oral DAA combinations that have the potential to close the gaps in the current DAA treatment portfolio. Herein, we review the challenges associated with current DAAs and how these two regimens may be implemented in existing treatment algorithms.

Comparison of effectiveness and discontinuation of interferon-free therapy for hepatitis C in prison inmates and noninmates

Chronic hepatitis C treatment with direct acting antiviral (DAA) therapy during incarceration is an attractive option, due to its short duration and to the possibility of directly observed treatment or supervision. The aim of this study is to compare the effectiveness and rates of discontinuation of DAA treatment in prisoners and nonprisoners. We studied all patients treated in the 10 prisons of Catalonia and at 3 public hospitals in the Barcelona area between 1 January 2015 and 30 April 2016. We analysed sustained viral response (SVR) and rates of discontinuation through intention-to-treat and modified-intention-to-treat analyses, the latter excluding discontinuations due to release from prison. One hundred and eighty-eight inmates and 862 noninmates were included. Prisoners were significantly younger than nonprisoners, with higher proportions of men, drug users, HIV infection, genotypes 1a and 3 and more treatment with psychiatric drugs. Overall, 98.4% of patients completed treatment. The discontinuation rate was low, but higher in inmates (3.7% vs 1.2% noninmates; P = .003) and in community patients >65 years old (2.8% vs 1.2% in under 65 seconds; P = .008). Among the inmates, 7 (42.8%) discontinuations were due to release. SVR was 93.1% in inmates vs 96.5% in noninmates (P = .08) by intention-to-treat and 95.1% vs 96.5% (P = .37) by modified intention-to-treat. Virologic failure rates were similar (3.8% vs 3% in noninmates; P = .60). SVR, virologic failure and discontinuation rates were similar in inmates and noninmates. Currently, prisons are considered a priority for the implementation of DAA. Improved coordination between penitentiary and community health systems would help to ensure therapeutic continuity in released prisoners.

Baseline resistance-guided therapy does not enhance the response to interferon-free treatment of HCV infection in real life

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) response to direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) may be influenced by the presence of resistance-associated substitutions (RASs). This study aimed to assess if NS5A baseline RAS-guided treatment enhances the rate of sustained viral response (SVR) in naïve HCV-infected patients in clinical practice. All HCV-infected patients who initiated treatment with interferon (IFN)-free DAA-based regimens between March 2016 and May 2017 in 17 Spanish hospitals and who had evaluable SVR 12 weeks (SVR12) after the end of therapy were included. Patients had to be DAA naïve, with the exception of sofosbuvir with/without IFN. In one hospital, participants received therapy guided by the presence of NS5A-RASs (RGT population). Patients enrolled in the remaining hospitals, without baseline RASs testing, constituted the control population. A total of 120 and 512 patients were included in the RGT and control populations, respectively. Nine (7.5%) individuals in the RGT population showed baseline NS5A-RASs. All of them achieved SVR12. The SVR12 rate in the RGT population was 97.2% (three relapses) whereas it was 98.8% (six relapses) in the control population (p = 0.382). Our findings suggest that testing for baseline NS5A-RASs in naïve HCV-infected patients does not enhance the rate of SVR to DAA-based IFN-free therapy in clinical practice.

Baseline dasabuvir resistance in Hepatitis C virus from the genotypes 1, 2 and 3 and modeling of the NS5B-dasabuvir complex by the in silico approach

Background: Current combination treatments with direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs) can cure more than 95% of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections. However, resistance-associated substitutions (RASs) may emerge and can also be present in treatment-naïve patients. Methods, results and discussion: In this study, a semi-pan-genotypic population sequencing method was developed and used to assess all NS5B amino acid variants between residue positions 310 and 564. Our method successfully sequenced more than 90% of genotype (GT) 1a, 1b, 2b and 3a samples. By using the population sequencing method with a cut-off of 20%, we found the dasabuvir RASs A553V and C445F to be a baseline polymorphism of GT 2b (8 out of 8) and GT 3a (18 out of 18) sequences, respectively. In GT 1a and 1b treatment-naïve subjects (n=25), no high-fold resistance polymorphism/RASs were identified. We further predicted dasabuvir’s binding pose with the NS5B polymerase using the in silico methods to elucidate the reasons associated with the resistance of clinically relevant RASs. Dasabuvir was docked at the palm-I site and was found to form hydrogen bonds with the residues S288, I447, Y448, N291 and D318. The RAS positions 316, 414, 448, 553 and 556 were found to constitute the dasabuvir binding pocket.

Natural polymorphisms in the resistance associated sites of HCV-G1 NS5B domain and correlation with geographic origin of HCV isolates

BACKGROUND

We evaluated the frequency of naturally occurring resistance associated substitutions (RASs) and their characteristic of polymorphic or non-polymorphic amino acid change to direct acting antivirals (DAAs) in NS5b HCV subtypes 1a and 1b according to different geographic origin of isolates.

METHODS

Using a public database we retrieved 738 worldwide NS5b sequences (for which was available the geographic origin) from HCV genotype (G)1 infected patients naive to DAAs. NS5b sequences clustering with G1a were more conserved in regard of RASs than G1b isolates, (14% vs 57% RASs, P < 0.0001).

RESULTS

In G1a, RASs were differently distributed between isolates from Europe (24%) and USA, (12%) P = 0.0186. In particular, 421 V associated with resistance to non-nucleoside inhibitor beclabuvir was polymorphic in Europe and USA, being detected in 24% and 11% of sequences, respectively, P = 0.0140. In G1b, RASs were found in 45% of sequences from Europe, in 54% of isolates from USA and in 70% of sequences from Asia (P = 0.0051). The 316 N polymorphism was detected in 54% of Asian isolates and at lower frequency, in 28% of isolates from USA and in 20% of European sequences (P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, a higher prevalence of RASs in G1b respect to G1a was found and a geographical distribution of RASs and polymorphic aa changes was observed in G1a as well in G1b. The clinical and therapeutic impact of the geographic distribution of RASs to polymerase inhibitors remains to be established, particularly in patients with virologic failure to DAAs and/or advanced liver disease.

Pharmacokinetics, safety, and tolerability of the 2- and 3-direct-acting antiviral combination of AL-335, odalasvir, and simeprevir in healthy subjects

This Phase I, open-label, two-group, fixed-sequence study evaluated the pharmacokinetics and safety of AL-335, odalasvir, and simeprevir in healthy subjects. Group 1 (n = 16) received AL-335 800 mg once daily (QD) (days 1-3, 11-13, and 21-23), simeprevir 150 mg QD (days 4-23), and odalasvir 150 mg (day 14) followed by 50 mg QD (days 15-23). Group 2 (n = 16) received the same AL-335 regimen as in Group 1 plus odalasvir 150 mg (day 4) followed by 50 mg QD (days 5-23) and simeprevir 150 mg QD (days 14-23). Blood samples were collected to determine plasma concentrations of AL-335 (prodrug) and its metabolites, ALS-022399 (monophosphate precursor) and ALS-022227 (parent nucleoside), odalasvir, and simeprevir. Thirty-two subjects were enrolled. Odalasvir and simeprevir given alone, or in combination, increased AL-335 area under plasma concentration-time curve over 24 hours (AUC 0-24 h) 3-, 4-, and 7- to 8-fold, respectively; ALS-022399 AUC 0-24 h increased 2-, 2-, and 3-fold, respectively. Simeprevir had no effect on ALS-022227 AUC 0-24 h, whereas odalasvir with/without simeprevir increased ALS-022227 AUC 0-24 h 1.5-fold. AL-335 had no effect on odalasvir or simeprevir pharmacokinetics. Odalasvir and simeprevir AUC 0-24 h increased 1.5- to 2-fold for both drugs when coadministered irrespective of AL-335 coadministration. Study medications were well tolerated with no serious adverse events. One subject prematurely discontinued study drugs (unrelated event). This study defined the preliminary pharmacokinetic and safety profiles of the combination of AL-335, odalasvir, and simeprevir in healthy subjects. These data support the further evaluation of this combination for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C virus infection.

Real-world effectiveness of 8-week treatment with ledipasvir/sofosbuvir in chronic hepatitis C

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Ledipasvir/sofosbuvir (LDV/SOF) for 8 to 24 weeks is approved for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C virus infection (HCV). In the ION-3 study, 8 weeks of LDV/SOF was non-inferior to 12 weeks in previously untreated genotype 1 (GT1) patients without cirrhosis. According to the Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC), 8-week treatment may be considered in naïve non-cirrhotic GT1-patients. However, there are only limited data on the effectiveness of an 8-week regimen of LDV/SOF under real-world conditions. The aim of the present study was to characterise patients receiving 8 weeks of LDV/SOF compared to those receiving 12 weeks of LDV/SOF, and to describe therapeutic outcomes in routine clinical practice.

METHODS

The German Hepatitis C-Registry is a large national real-world cohort that analyses effectiveness and safety of antiviral therapies in chronic HCV. This data set is based on 2,404 patients. Treatment with SOF/LDV (without RBV) for 8 or 12 weeks was initiated on or before September 30, 2015.

RESULTS

Overall, 84.6% (2,034/2,404) of the safety population (intention-to-treat-1 [ITT1]) and 98.2% (2,029/2,066) of the per protocol (PP) population achieved sustained virological response at week 12 (SVR12). In the 8-week group, 85.1% (824/968) of ITT1 and 98.3% (821/835) of PP patients achieved SVR12, while in the 12-week group, 85.5% (1,210/1,415) of ITT1, and 98.1% (1,208/1,231) of PP patients achieved SVR12. When treated according to the SmPC, 98.7% (739/749) of the patients achieved SVR12 (PP). Relapse was observed in 9.5% (2/21) of cirrhotic patients treated for 8 weeks (PP).

CONCLUSIONS

Under real-world conditions a high proportion of eligible patients receiving 8-week LDV/SOF treatment achieved SVR12. Relapse occurred more frequently in patients who did not meet the selection criteria according to the SmPC.

LAY SUMMARY

In a large real-world cohort of patients mainly treated by physicians in private practice in Germany, shorter HCV treatment (8-week) resulted in equivalent cure rates to 12-week treatment in genotype 1 HCV-infected patients. Thus, shorter treatment can be recommended in these patients which would substantially reduce costs of therapy. Clinical Trial number: DRKS00009717 (German Clinical Trials Register, DRKS).

Protease inhibitor therapy for hepatitis C virus-infection

INTRODUCTION

The hepatitis C virus (HCV) has affected an estimated of 80 million individuals worldwide and is a strain on public health. Around 25-30% of patients in Europe and the US who are infected with HIV are coinfected with HCV. Prior to 2013, treatment modalities containing an NS3/4A protease inhibitor in combination with pegylated interferon and ribavirin improved sustained virological response (SVR) rates. However, rates of severe side effects were high. Nowadays, oral direct-acting antiviral (DAA) combination therapy offers excellent treatment efficacy, safety and tolerability.

AREAS COVERED

This review focuses on the current literature and clinical evidence and their impact regarding NS3/4A protease inhibitors. The pitfalls encountered in treating HIV- and HBV-coinfected patients are also discussed.

EXPERT OPINION

In the era of DAA treatment, third-generation pan-genotypic NS3/4A protease inhibitors (mainly glecaprevir and voxilaprevir) show high antiviral activity and a genetic resistance barrier with cure rates of over 95% when combined with an NS5A inhibitor, irrespective of baseline resistance associated variants (RASs) being present. These new key components of DAA combination therapy are impressive options to eradicate HCV in the so-called difficult-to-treat population (e.g. compensated cirrhosis, end-stage renal disease and patients who failed previous DAA treatment).

Systematic review with meta-analysis: effectiveness and tolerability of interferon-free direct-acting antiviral regimens for chronic hepatitis C genotype 1 in routine clinical practice in Asia

BACKGROUND

Direct-acting antiviral (DAA) regimens have shown high efficacy and tolerability for patients with HCV genotype 1/1b (GT1/1b) in clinical trials. However, robust real-world evidence of interferon (IFN)-free DAA treatment for HCV GT1-infected patients in Asia is still lacking.

AIM

To systematically review and meta-analyse the effectiveness and tolerability of IFN-free DAA therapy for HCV GT1 infection in Asia.

METHODS

We included studies that enrolled adult patients with HCV GT1 infection in routine clinical practice in Asia, using IFN-free DAA regimens, and reported sustained virological response (SVR) after 12/24 weeks end-of-treatment by 31 May 2017. The pooled SVR rates were computed with a random-effects model. Subgroup analysis and meta-regression as previously registered in PROSPERO were performed to determine how pre-planned variables might have affected the pooled estimates.

RESULTS

We included 41 studies from eight countries and regions, comprising of 8574 individuals. The pooled SVR rates for GT1 were 89.9% (95% CI 88.6-91.1, I²  = 55.1%) with daclatasvir/asunaprevir (DCV/ASV) and 98.1% (95% CI 97.0-99.0, I²  = 41.0%) with ledipasvir/sofosbuvir ± ribavirin (LDV/SOF ± RBV). Baseline cirrhosis but not prior treatment history and age, attenuated the effectiveness of both regimens. Baseline resistance associated substitutions (RASs) severely attenuated SVR of DCV/ASV (65.4% vs 94.3%, P < 0.001) and only minimally with LDV/SOF ± RBV (94.5% vs 99.2%, P = 0.003). Patients with renal dysfunction treated with DCV/ASV showed a higher SVR rate (93.9% vs 89.8%, P = 0.046). Patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) LDV/SOF ± RBV achieved a lower SVR than those without HCC (94.1% vs 98.7%, P = 0.001).

CONCLUSION

All oral DAA treatment of HCV GT1 resulted in high cure rates in Asian patients in routine clinical practice setting including elderly patients and those with end-stage renal disease.

Shortening the duration of therapy for chronic hepatitis C infection

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.

Direct antiviral agents (DAAs) - A new age in the treatment of hepatitis C virus infection

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a global health problem, because infection frequently leads to chronic hepatitis C eventually progressing to liver cirrhosis and liver cancer. Improved insights into the HCV replication cycle and the role of HCV non-structural proteins have recently enabled to identify drugs directly acting on specific HCV target structures. Agents from three drug classes have been developed and approved by the health authorities. Combinations of two or more drugs from different classes achieve high (>90%) HCV clearance rates and are well tolerated. This interferon-free DAA (direct antiviral agent) therapy has revolutionized antiviral therapy in hepatitis C so that successful hepatitis C treatment can be offered to virtually all patients irrespective of their co-morbidity. This review provides an overview over currently approved regimens and outlines their use in clinical practice. In addition potential short-comings of the current therapeutic options such as drug-drug interactions and selection of viral resistance are addressed. DAA combination therapy has the potential to obtain global control over hepatitis C. However, easy access to DAAs, availability of reliable HCV diagnostics, and affordable costs remain still important goals, which must be reached to globally eliminate hepatitis C.

Ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir + dasabuvir ± ribavirin for treatment of chronic hepatitis C 1 genotype in the Republic of Belarus

AIM OF THE STUDY

Aim of the study is to evaluate real-world efficacy of the ombitasvir/ paritaprevir/ ritonavir + dasabuvir ± ribavirin for treatment of chronic hepatitis C 1 genotype.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study included 27 patients according to inclusion criteria. Main laboratory studies were performed in all patients at the baseline and during the treatment.

RESULTS

Efficacy of the antiviral therapy was assessed by measuring the SVR12 and the SVR24 along with measuring of viral load during the treatment. The SVR12 and SVR24 rate was 100% (27/27).

DISCUSSION

The results of the treatment were comparable to the results of pivotal, large-scale, randomized clinical trials. There were no serious adverse events during the treatment.