Evaluation of Temporal Virological Responses to Interferon-α-2b plus Ribavirin among Genotype 3a Hepatitis C Virus-Infected Patients

Abstract

Objectives: The present study aimed to examine the impact of rapid virological response (RVR) and early virological response (EVR) on sustained virological response (SVR) in chronic hepatitis C genotype 3a individuals. Methods: The patients were given antiviral therapy with IFN-α-2b, 3 million units 3 times a week and 800-1,200 mg of ribavirin daily adjusted to the patient's body weight (<60 kg 800 mg day−¹, and >60 kg 1,200 day−¹). The patients received this combination therapy for 24 weeks. The patients were evaluated for their viral load at week 4, 12, and 24 using RT-PCR. Results: Out of 1,471 patients, 43.3% showed a negative viral load in week 4, demonstrating RVR, whereas 56.6% maintained a high viral load. These were further separated based on viral reduction in their plasma: either negative for HCV-RNA at week 12 (n = 575), manifesting EVR, or showing a 2-log reduction in HCV viral load classified as partial EVR (PEVR; n = 259). The PEVR response was less (29.7%) compared with RVR (85.9%) and EVR (69.0%), although nonresponders were found in both groups. Conclusions: Individuals incompliant with their treatment who have a higher RVR significantly influence their SVR towards a better remission that can be treated within a short duration with standard treatment.

Efficacy of Dorsal Root Ganglion Pulsed Radiofrequency Combined with Paravertebral Injection of Recombinant Human Interferon-α2b in Herpetic Neuralgia

“…The possible mechanism of antiviral and enhanced immunity of recombinant human interferon-α2b is to induce the cells to produce a variety of antiviral proteins and inhibit the virus from multiplying in cells by binding to cell surface receptors. 11 Therefore, the DRG injection of recombinant human interferon-α2b is effective in treating acute herpes zoster by antiviral and enhanced immunity, and also can avoid adverse reactions caused by systemic administration. However, the single therapy of DRG injection of recombinant human interferon-α2b is not enough to treat herpes zoster neuralgia.…”