[Comparative efficacy of combined treatment with intron A and pegintron in combination with ribavirin of patients with chronic hepatitis C]

Abstract

Aim: To investigate the efficacy of combined therapy of patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC) including intron A, pegintron (preparations of alpha-2b interferon) and ribavirin, and evaluation of the above treatment side effects.

Material and methods: 47 CHC patients (38 males and 9 females) were divided into two groups. 22 patients of group 1 received intron A and ribavirin, 25 patients of group 2 were given pegintron and ribavirin for 6-12 months. The examination made before the treatment, during the treatment and after it included clinical, biochemical, virusological blood tests, tests for autoantibodies, thyroid hormones, ultrasound investigation.

Results: The response in group 1 was 55%, in group 2--72.7%. In group 2, CNS and skin side effects occurred more frequently. After the treatment side effects regressed in 95.8% patients.

Conclusion: The pilot experience in Russia confirmed the findings of the foreign investigators on higher efficacy of combined treatment with pegylized interferons (pegintron) and ribavirin vs combination of intron A with ribavirin. It is shown that side effects of the above treatment can be corrected in outpatient medication.