Experimental drug for hepatitis B shows promise in reducing virus levels
New research suggests a first-of-its-kind drug for hepatitis B may let some patients stop treatment without showing signs of the dangerous liver virus.
Chronic hepatitis B is hard to treat, and the virus can hide out in the body, making a cure elusive.
Researchers reported Thursday that in two international studies, about 1 in 5 patients given the experimental drug for six months saw their virus reduced to levels low enough that the immune system could keep it in check, what scientists call a “functional cure.” The studies were funded by GSK, which is seeking regulatory approval.
- Hepatitis B drug may offer 'functional cure' for some patients PBS —
- Experimental hepatitis B drug might offer ‘functional cure’ for a subset of patients Boston Globe —
- Experimental hepatitis B drug might offer 'functional cure' for a subset of patients The Independent —
- FDA fast-tracks promising hepatitis B drug after ‘remarkable’ trial results The Independent —
- New drug can cure previous incurable serious disease: ‘Remarkable’ NY Post —