Work

Generic vs brand forms of direct acting antivirals for hepatitis C virus treatment in Egyptian children

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND Direct acting antivirals have revolutionized hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment. However, the high price of the brand forms is a barrier for their use in resource limited countries as Egypt. AIM To assess the safety and efficacy of the generic sofosbuvir (SOF)/ledipasvir (LED) in Egyptian HCV-infected children and to compare the results with the brand form. METHODS This analytical retrospective study included HCV infected children and adolescents aged 12-18 years or weighing > 35 kg. Collected data included: Age, sex, risk factors of HCV acquisition, comorbidities, liver functions, HCV viral load, degree of hepatic fibrosis, sustained virologic response (SVR) and frequency of treatment adverse effects. Patients who received the generic form of SOF/LED (Ledisbuvir) were compared to patients who received the brand form (Harvoni®) regarding SVR and frequency of adverse events. RESULTS The study included 43 patients who received Ledisbuvir and 73 who received Harvoni®. All patients achieved SVR. Treatment side effects were mild, transient and comparable in both groups. CONCLUSION The use of generic SOF/LED in HCV infected children is safe and effective. It is comparable to the brand form at a reduced price and represents an affordable and effective alternative.

Source: World Journal of Hepatology

DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v17.i12.110726

Authors: Engy Mogahed, Haytham Ghita, Afaf Enayet, Noha Yasin, Hanaa El-Karaksy

Institution: Cairo University

Language: English

Topic: Hepatitis C virus research

Subfield: Hepatology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W7117293635