C Hepatitis: Treatment Options and New Drug Insights

Hepatitis C

Hello Doctor: My father has hepatitis C and Sjögren's syndrome.
He has been taking immunosuppressive and liver-protective medications regularly, and he also undergoes regular blood tests and ultrasounds.
However, for over a year, his ALT (GPT) and AST (GOP) levels have remained between 80 and 110 and have not decreased.
Recently, following the doctor's advice, he started receiving injections of a medication called "SNMC" (Strongen Neo Minophagen C).
I would like to ask if this is a new drug? Are there any other side effects associated with this injection? Why have I not heard of it before? What is its efficacy? After a week of continuous injections, his levels dropped from 110 to around 87.
He will continue with three injections per week; if he stops, will his levels rise again? Thank you!

Miss Lin, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/07/05

Dr. Xu Jinchuan reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello! The medication mentioned in the letter is not a new drug; it is an old drug, but it is not used for the treatment of hepatitis C.
The efficacy of this medication is unclear.
Currently, the treatment for hepatitis C involves long-acting interferon combined with oral antiviral medications, and this combination therapy can achieve an effectiveness rate of about 40-60%, which is considered quite good.
I wonder if your father's primary physician has any recommendations regarding this?

Reply Date: 2006/07/05

More Info

C hepatitis, or hepatitis C, is a viral infection that primarily affects the liver, leading to inflammation and potentially serious complications such as chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. The hepatitis C virus (HCV) is transmitted through blood-to-blood contact, and many individuals may remain asymptomatic for years, which can delay diagnosis and treatment. Chronic hepatitis C can lead to long-term health issues, and it is estimated that 80-90% of individuals infected with HCV will develop chronic hepatitis.

The treatment landscape for chronic hepatitis C has evolved significantly over the years. Historically, the standard treatment involved the use of interferon (either standard or pegylated) combined with ribavirin. Interferon is an immune-modulating agent that helps the body fight the virus, while ribavirin is an antiviral medication that inhibits viral replication. However, this combination therapy had limitations, with only about 40-60% of patients achieving a sustained virologic response (SVR), which is the goal of treatment, indicating that the virus is no longer detectable in the blood.

In recent years, direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs) have revolutionized the treatment of hepatitis C. These medications target specific steps in the HCV life cycle, leading to much higher cure rates, often exceeding 95%. DAAs are typically taken orally and have fewer side effects compared to older treatments. The choice of DAA regimen depends on various factors, including the HCV genotype, the presence of liver cirrhosis, and previous treatment history.

Regarding the specific medication mentioned, Strongen Neo Minophagen C (SNMC), it is important to clarify that this is not a new drug for treating hepatitis C. SNMC has been used in Japan for various liver conditions, but its efficacy in treating hepatitis C specifically is not well-established in the medical literature. It is primarily used as a supportive therapy to improve liver function and reduce liver enzyme levels, but it does not directly target the hepatitis C virus.
The reduction in liver enzymes (GPT and GOP) observed after starting SNMC may indicate some improvement in liver function, but it is crucial to understand that this does not equate to viral clearance. If the underlying hepatitis C infection is not treated with appropriate antiviral therapy, liver enzyme levels may rise again once the treatment is stopped.
In terms of side effects, SNMC is generally considered safe, but like any medication, it can have adverse effects. Patients should monitor for any unusual symptoms and discuss them with their healthcare provider.
For your father's case, it is essential to have a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses the hepatitis C virus directly. This may involve consulting with a hepatologist or a specialist in infectious diseases who can recommend the most effective antiviral therapy based on his specific condition. Regular monitoring of liver function tests and viral load is crucial to assess the effectiveness of any treatment regimen.

In summary, while supportive therapies like SNMC can play a role in managing liver health, they should not replace antiviral treatments that target the hepatitis C virus directly. A thorough evaluation and appropriate treatment plan are vital for achieving the best outcomes in managing chronic hepatitis C.

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