Pegylated-IFNα2a for HIV/hepatitis C virus coinfected patients: out with the old, in with the new

Abstract

Introduction: Liver disease is a major burden in patients co-infected with HIV and hepatitis C virus (HCV). From the time of its approval, pegylated-IFNα-2a (pegIFN-α2a) has played a major role in treatment of HCV in HIV/HCV co-infection.

Areas covered: This article briefly summarizes the epidemiology of HCV/HIV co-infection, the pharmacokinetic, and pharmacodynamic properties of pegIFN-α2a. Results from clinical trials investigating therapies containing pegIFN-α2a for HIV/HCV co-infected patients will be discussed with a focus on efficacy and safety.

Expert opinion: PegIFN-α2a has improved rates of sustained virologic response for co-infected patients. In combination with direct-acting antivirals (DAA), the disparity between mono- and co-infected patients is beginning to disappear. For the first time, IFN-free regimens are available in clinical practice. It is unlikely that pegIFN-α2a will continue to be a critical component in treatments for HCV in the general co-infected population.

Keywords::

• direct-acting antivirals
• hepatitis C virus
• HIV
• pegylated-IFNα-2a

Notes