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F: Peg-interferon alpha-2a & Ribavirin
Pegylated interferon alpha-2a activates innate immune responses against viral infection, while ribavirin inhibits viral RNA synthesis, together targeting hepatitis C virus replication.
Pegylated interferon alpha-2a activates innate immune responses against viral infection, while ribavirin inhibits viral RNA synthesis, together targeting hepatitis C virus replication. Used for Chronic hepatitis C virus infection.
At a glance
| Generic name | F: Peg-interferon alpha-2a & Ribavirin |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Pegasys, Robatrol |
| Sponsor | Kaohsiung Medical University Chung-Ho Memorial Hospital |
| Drug class | Antiviral combination therapy |
| Target | Interferon-alpha receptor; Hepatitis C virus RNA-dependent RNA polymerase |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Virology/Hepatology |
| Phase | FDA-approved |
Mechanism of action
Pegylated interferon alpha-2a is a long-acting form of interferon that binds to interferon-alpha receptors on immune cells, triggering antiviral and immunomodulatory effects including upregulation of MHC molecules and activation of natural killer cells. Ribavirin is a nucleoside analog that inhibits viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase and depletes guanosine pools, reducing hepatitis C virus replication. The combination provides synergistic antiviral activity.
Approved indications
- Chronic hepatitis C virus infection
Common side effects
- Flu-like symptoms (fever, fatigue, myalgia)
- Hemolytic anemia
- Neutropenia
- Thrombocytopenia
- Depression/mood changes
- Headache
- Insomnia
- Nausea
Key clinical trials
- Tailored Regimens of PEGASYS® and Ribavirin for Genotype 1 Chronic Hepatitis C Patients Trial (TARGET-1) (PHASE4)
- Peginterferon Alfa-2a Plus Ribavirin Combination Treatment in Chronic Hepatitis C Post-Renal Transplant Patients (PHASE4)
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |
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