What is the Path Forward to Treat Hepatitis Delta Virus?: Old Treatments and New Options

Abstract

HDV use the cell enzymes for its own replication, and the HBsAg as an envelope. There is an urgent need to develop new drugs for chronic hepatitis D (CHD). Pegylated interferon alpha (PEG-IFNα) (direct-antiviral and immune modulator) has been used and recommended by scientific guidelines, although not approved, with moderate efficacy and poor tolerability. There are several drugs in development which target the host: bulevirtide (BLV), lonafarnib (LNF), nucleic acid polymer, and others.

Keywords: Bulevirtide; Chronic hepatitis D; HBV cure; HDV therapy; Lonafarnib; Pegylated interferon; Replicor.