Peginterferon Alfa-2a (Pegasys) and Ribavirin in the Treatment of Chronic Hepatitis C

Abstract

Background and Aim: Pegylation of interferon alfa-2a is a new modality for treatment of chronic hepatitis C. This clinical trial was conducted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of PEG IFN in combination with ribavirin in CHC patients.Methods: Fifty seven patients with HCV RNA in serum, persistently elevated ALT and chronic C hepatitis on liver biopsy enrolled to this study. The patients received PEG IFN 180 micg per week plus ribavirin 10-15 mg/kg per day.Results: HCV RNA was negative in 37 patients (74%) after three months of beginning of study (EVR) and SVR occurred in 50% of all patients.Conclusion: Peginterferon alfa-2a plus ribavirin is safe and effective in treatment of naïve patients and relapsers.