In draft guidance published today healthcare guidance body NICE has recommended ledipasvir-sofosbuvir (Harvoni, Gilead Sciences) as a treatment option for some adults with genotype 1 or 4 chronic hepatitis C.

Hepatitis C is a virus that infects the liver. It is spread by contact with infected blood, for instance by using contaminated needles for injecting drugs or sharing razors or toothbrushes. The virus can cause inflammation of, and damage to the liver, preventing it from working properly.

Figures from 2012 suggest that around 160,000 people are chronically infected with the hepatitis C virus in England. More than half of people with chronic hepatitis C do not know they are infected because they only have mild symptoms or no symptoms at all for a long period of time. About 1 in 3 people infected with the hepatitis C virus will eventually develop liver cirrhosis, where normal liver tissue is replaced by scar tissue. A small percentage of people with chronic hepatitis C and cirrhosis also develop liver cancer.

The aims of treatment are to clear the virus from the blood to prevent progression of liver disease, and to prevent the transmission of the hepatitis C virus.

The marketing authorisation for ledipasvir-sofosbuvir recommends treatment for genotypes 1, 3 (in combination with ribavirin) and 4 hepatitis C. Genotypes 1 and 3 hepatitis C account for the majority of chronic hepatitis C cases in England (46% and 43% respectively). Genotype 4 hepatitis C accounts for around 4% of cases.

For more details, go to: https://www.nice.org.uk/news/press-and-media/nice-consults-on-draft-guidance-recommending-ledipasvir-sofosbuvir-harvoni-for-treating-chronic-hepatitis-c