HCV New Drugs

In the Journals
Generic ledipasvir-sofosbuvir achieved SVR12 in HCV genotype 1b
May 23, 2017
Healio
Treatment with generic ledipasvir-sofosbuvir for 8 to 12 weeks was affective in Chinese patients with hepatitis C genotype 1b, according to a recently published study.

“Genotype 1 is the most common in China, as it accounts for 58.4% of all HCV-infected persons, principally genotype 1b,” the researchers wrote. “As an eliminator of HCV and a leader of direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs), sofosbuvir has revolutionized the treatment of [chronic hepatitis C] since 2013. However, brand name DAAs are unaffordable. Fortunately, Gilead Sciences ... approved generic ledipasvir-sofosbuvir with a very low price in many neighboring countries of China, and patients can go to these countries to purchase the drug and for treatment.”

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Of Interest
The controversy over expensive new drugs for hepatitis C
Link to research and news articles addressing the high cost of hepatitis C drugs; insurance restrictions - private insurers/Medicaid - and availability of generic versions/India, Egypt and other lower-income countries or through online "buyers clubs"