Viral hepatitis C therapy: pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic considerations

Clara T. M. M. de Kanter, Joost P. H. Drenth, Joop E. Arends, Henk W. Reesink, Marc van der Valk, Robert J. de Knegt, David M. Burger

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articleAcademicpeer-review

36 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Chronic hepatitis C is a global health problem. To prevent or reduce complications, the hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection needs to be eradicated. There have been several developments in treating these patients since the discovery of the virus. As of 1 January 2014, the drugs that are approved for treatment of chronic HCV infection are peginterferon-α, ribavirin, boceprevir, telaprevir, simeprevir and sofosbuvir. In this review we provide an overview of the clinical pharmacokinetic characteristics of these agents by describing their absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion. In the pharmacodynamic part we summarize what is known about the relationships between the pharmacokinetics of each drug and efficacy or toxicity. We briefly discuss the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of chronic hepatitis C treatment in special patient populations, such as patients with liver cirrhosis, renal insufficiency or HCV/HIV coinfection, and children. With this knowledge, physicians, pharmacists, nurse practitioners, etc. should be educated to safely and effectively treat HCV-infected patients
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)409-427
JournalClinical Pharmacokinetics
Volume53
Issue number5
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2014

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