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Ribavirin dose reduction is effective for managing anaemia in patients using boceprevir or telaprevir
Liz Highleyman, 2012-05-11 09:20:00
Reducing the dose of ribavirin and adding erythropoietin are both good options for managing anaemia in hepatitis C patients treated with boceprevir (Victrelis) triple therapy, according to study findings presented at the 47th International Liver Congress (EASL 2012) in Barcelona. A related study found that ribavirin reduction also did not impair cure rates with telaprevir (Incivek/Incivo).
Approval of the first direct-acting antiviral agents has brought about a new era in chronic hepatitis C treatment. While many people look forward to interferon-free regimens, others need treatment now and can benefit from the first-generation HCV protease inhibitors – boceprevir or telaprevir – added to pegylated interferon plus ribavirin.
Triple therapy raises the likelihood of a cure and offers the potential for shorter treatment, but it also increases side-effects such as anaemia (low red blood cell or haemoglobin levels). Various approaches are used to manage anaemia including reducing the dose of ribavirin, adding erythropoietin (EPO [Epogen and Procrit]) to stimulate red blood cell production, and blood transfusion. Ribavirin dose reduction is risky for patients on interferon dual therapy since it helps lessen the likelihood of post-treatment relapse.
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