Sofosbuvir and ledipasvir for HIV/HCV co-infected patients

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a chronic infection that disproportionately impacts people living with HIV. In the past, HCV therapy was less effective in individuals with HIV co-infection. However, the advent of direct-acting antivirals has revolutionized HCV treatment with high rates of success in patients both with and without HIV.

Areas covered: In this paper, we review the evidence supporting the use of ledipasvir and sofosbuvir (LDV/SOF) for the treatment of HCV in patients with HIV co-infection. Articles searchable on MEDLINE/PubMed were reviewed to provide context for use of LDV/SOF in individuals with HCV and HIV co-infection.

Expert opinion: This treatment is highly effective in achieving HCV cure or sustained virologic response, however further studies need to done to address efficacy of treatment in people with uncontrolled HIV, concerns regarding drug-interactions with antiretroviral therapy, and potential for shorter duration treatment.

KEYWORDS:

• Hepatitis C virus
• HIV/HCV co-infection
• ledipasvir/sofosbuvir
• direct-acting antivirals

Declaration of interest

This manuscript was supported by the intramural program of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) and has been funded in part by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, and with federal funds from the National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, under Contract no. HHSN2616200800001E. The content of this publication does not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the Department of Health and Human Services, nor does mention of trade names, commercial products or organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. Government. The authors have no other relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript apart from those disclosed.