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Hepatitis C - New drugs and treatment prospects

Marianna Zając1, Izabela Muszalska1, Agnieszka Sobczak1

  • 1Poznan University of Medicinal Sciences, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Grunwaldzka Str. 6, 60-780, Poznań, Poland.

European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry
|January 28, 2019
PubMed

Insights

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection impacts millions globally. This review details current antiviral drugs, their molecular targets, and clinical use for effective HCV treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Virology
  • Hepatology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection affects 3% of the global population, leading to significant mortality and chronic liver disease.
  • Untreated chronic HCV can progress to cirrhosis (27%) and hepatocellular carcinoma (25%).
  • HCV is a (+)ssRNA enveloped virus belonging to the Flaviviridae family, with seven major genotypes identified.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review molecular targets and chemical structures of drugs used in Hepatitis C virus treatment.
  • To discuss indications, contraindications, and application regimens for anti-HCV therapies.
  • To provide an overview of the evolution of HCV treatment strategies.

Main Methods:

  • A comprehensive literature review of 113 papers, including original research and reviews.
  • Analysis of drug classes targeting viral replication and assembly.
  • Synthesis of information on clinical applications and resistance patterns.

Main Results:

  • Since 2011, various direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) targeting viral polymerases and proteases have been approved.
  • Combination therapies are standard to prevent rapid viral resistance.
  • The review covers a spectrum of anti-HCV drugs, detailing their mechanisms and usage.

Conclusions:

  • Modern anti-HCV drug development focuses on specific molecular targets for improved efficacy.
  • Understanding drug regimens and resistance is crucial for successful Hepatitis C virus eradication.
  • This review synthesizes key information for clinicians and researchers in HCV management.

Keywords:
Chemical structureDirect-acting drugsInterferon-αMechanism of actionMetabolismPharmacokinetic parametersRibavirinSide effects

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