Peginterferon alfa-2b and ribavirin combination therapy for chronic hepatitis C

Pegylated interferon and ribavirin have been the standard treatment for chronic hepatitis C (CHC) since 2001. In the USA, hepatitis C is the most common blood-borne infection and the leading cause of cirrhosis requiring liver transplantation. Due to heightened awareness, more patients are being screened and diagnosed with CHC. Interferon-based therapy will continue to be a mainstay of treatment for years to come. A familiarity with the drugs used for the treatment of CHC is beneficial for most healthcare providers. This article will discuss the use of peginterferon alfa-2b and ribavirin, including dosing, length of treatment, mechanism of action, pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, side effects, monitoring and contraindications, and will provide a future perspective on the treatment of CHC.