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06:28
Immunofluorescence to Monitor the Cellular Uptake of Human Lactoferrin and its Associated Antiviral Activity Against the Hepatitis C Virus
Published on: October 1, 2015
Fluvastatin inhibits hepatitis C replication in humans
Ted Bader1, Javid Fazili, Mohammed Madhoun
1Veteran's Administration Medical Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA.
The American Journal of Gastroenterology
|April 16, 2008
Summary
Fluvastatin showed modest, short-lived antiviral effects in chronic hepatitis C (HCV) patients. This study supports further research into fluvastatin combined with standard HCV therapies, indicating statins are safe for hepatitis C treatment.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Virology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Hepatitis C viral (HCV) infection is a leading cause of liver disease deaths in the US.
- Current treatments achieve sustained viral remission in only 50% of patients.
- Fluvastatin exhibits in vitro antiviral activity against HCV.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and antiviral efficacy of fluvastatin in individuals with chronic HCV.
- To determine the impact of fluvastatin on HCV RNA levels and liver function tests.
Main Methods:
- A prospective study involving 31 veterans with chronic HCV.
- Oral fluvastatin doses ranged from 20 to 320 mg/day for 2-12 weeks.
- Weekly monitoring of HCV RNA and liver function tests.
Main Results:
- 50% of patients (11/22) on 80 mg/day or less showed reduced HCV RNA.
- Viral load reduction was observed within 4 weeks in 82% of responders.
- The antiviral effect was often transient, with viral load rebound in some patients.
Conclusions:
- Fluvastatin monotherapy demonstrated modest, variable, and often short-lived in vivo suppression of HCV.
- Findings support the concept of combining fluvastatin with standard therapies for HCV.
- Fluvastatin and statins appear safe for use in patients with hepatitis C.
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