| Theme |
Hepatitis B Update 2004 |
| Title |
Combination Lamivudine and Alpha-interferon Therapy for Treatment of Chronic Hepatitis B |
| Author |
Masahito Minami |
Molecular Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine |
| Author |
Takeshi Okanoue |
Molecular Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine |
| [ Summary ] |
There are a few drawbacks to lamivudine treatment of chronic hepatitis B. One is the durability of antiviral effects and another is the emergence of lamivudine-resistant HBV. We can expect a synergistic effect from the combination of lamivudine, a viral polymerase inhibitor and interferon, an activator of host immune response. Several reports from outside Japan have suggested better improvement in treatment of hepatitis or lowered emergence rate of lamivudine-resistant HBV with implementation of combination therapy. When we hesitate to provide long term administration of lamivudine to younger patients, combination therapy with interferon and lamivudine should be taken considered. Further study is needed to confirm the efficacy of combination therapy for Japanese patients and to establish an appropriate protocol. |