The Efficacy and Side Effects of Therapy with Peginterferon Alpha-2 a (PEGASYS) Combined with Ribavirin in Chronic Hepatitis C Patients: an open label Clinical Trial

Abstract

Background and aims: Peginterferon alpha-2a is a known standard therapy for patients with chronic HCV infection. However efficacy and safety of this treatment is still unclear in regional settings. This study was designed to clarify efficacy and safety of peg-interferon based therapy in Iranian patients. Methods: 23 patients were treated with Peginterferon alpha-2a in combination with ribavirin for 48 weeks. The patients were observed for adverse effects and response to therapy during treatment and 24 weeks after the end of therapy.Results: Early virologic response, end of treatment response, and sustained virologic response rates were 86.9 % (20/23), 82.6 % (19/23), and 78.3 % (18/23) respectively. The most common adverse effects in descending order were flue-like symptoms (74%), mood changes (48%), and weight loss (43%). Conclusion: Combination therapy with Peginterferon alpha-2a and ribavirin for 48 weeks is an effective treatment with minimal adverse effects.