Abstract

INTERFERON IN HEPATITIS C: NAVIGATING HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE AND CONTEMPORARY CHALLENGES IN TREATMENT

S. Salma*, Reshma M., Aswathy S.J. and Sini S.G.

ABSTRACT

The treatment of Hepatitis C with interferon has been a cornerstone in managing this viral infection for decades. Interferon, a cytokine with antiviral properties, functions by modulating the host immune response to combat the hepatitis C virus (HCV). This therapeutic approach involves administering interferon-alpha, either alone or in combination with ribavirin, depending on the specific genotype of the virus. Numerous clinical studies have demonstrated the efficacy of interferon-based regimens in achieving sustained virological response (SVR), indicating the eradication of HCV from the patient’s system. However the use of interferon is not without challenges, as it is associated with various side effects ranging from flu like symptoms to haematological abnormalities. These adverse effects often necessitate careful monitoring and management throughout the treatment course. While interferon treatment has played a crucial role in the historicalmanagement of Hepatitis C, ongoing research continues to explore novel therapies that prioritize outcomes. As the field evolves, clinicians are faced with challenge of balancing the historical significance of interferon with the emergence of more effective and well-tolerated alternatives in the pursuit of optimizing Hepatitis C treatment strategies.

Keywords: Hepatitis C, Interferon alpha, Ribavirin, Sustained virological response, genotype, Haematological abnormalities.