News Release

All-oral, direct-acting antivirals show promise for hep C and HIV co-infected, cirrhotic patients

Latest results show sofosbuvir-based combinations are effective and well tolerated in difficult-to-treat patients

Peer-Reviewed Publication

European Association for the Study of the Liver

April 23, 2015, Vienna, Austria: A new study revealed today at The International Liver CongressTM 2015 shows that sofosbuvir (SOF)-based regimens are effective and well tolerated in hepatitis C and HIV co-infected, cirrhotic patients. Sustained virologic response at 4 weeks (SVR4) was observed in 98% of patients and in 95% at 12 weeks (SVR12).

The results are particularly encouraging as this patient group is considered difficult-to-treat and has a high mortality rate. The study included 142 patients of different hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotypes who were initiated onto SOF-based regimens.

Adverse events were reported in 42 patients (digestive 10%, anaemia 19%, asthenia 24%, others 48%). Treatment was stopped in 3 patients and dose-adjusted in 13.

These results show that direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) such as SOF-based regimens are effective and well tolerated in HIV-HCV co-infected, cirrhotic patients; however, it is important to note that surveillance for liver-related events should continue in these patients.

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About The International Liver Congress™

This annual congress is the biggest event in the EASL calendar, attracting scientific and medical experts from around the world to learn about the latest in liver research. Specialists share research studies and findings, and discuss the hottest topics related to liver disease. This year, the congress is expected to attract approximately 10,000 delegates from all corners of the globe. 2015 is a very special year for EASL and the hepatology community as they will celebrate the 50th annual meeting. The International Liver Congress™ takes place from April 22-26, 2015, Vienna, Austria.

About EASL

Since EASL's foundation in 1966, this not-for-profit organisation has grown to over 4,000 members from more than 100 countries around the world. EASL is the leading liver association in Europe, it attracts the foremost hepatology experts and has an impressive track record in promoting research in liver disease, supporting wider education and promoting changes in European liver policy.

Contact

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