Treatment of Chronic Hepatitis C: Efficacy, Side Effects and Complications

Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection can lead to liver cirrhosis and its complications. Viral eradication is essential to prevent disease progression and reduces liver-related mortality and morbidity. Since the availability of direct-acting antivirals (DAA), HCV treatment has changed significantly. Current treatment strategies for different groups of patients as well as potential risks and caveats will be discussed in this review.

Interferon-free (IFN-free) treatment not only shortens treatment duration, but also achieves high rates of viral clearance and is overall well tolerated. Genotype-restricted but also pangenotypic combinations are available. Usually two DAA of different drug classes are combined. For the majority of the patients, treatment duration ranges from 8 to 12 weeks. Liver and kidney function as well as prior treatment experience and potential drug-drug interactions influence substance choices and treatment duration. However, modern IFN-free treatment is not only safer, but also overall far more simplified and effective. Global HCV eradication might be an ambitious but not completely unrealistic goal to pursue.

IFN-free antiviral treatment is safe and well tolerated. Patients can be treated almost independently of liver function or concomitant disease. Viral eradication is associated with reduced morbidity and mortality and better quality of life.