# Treatment of Hepatitis C Infections with Interferon:  A Historical Perspective

Authors: Robert M. Friedman; Sara Contente
Journal: Hepatitis Research and Treatment
 (2010)

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## Abstract

Interferons were first described in 1957, but it was not until 34
years after their discovery that sufficient quantities of it were
available for treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections,
Clinicians now have an excellent understanding of  the basis for
the effectiveness of interferon alpha (IFN-α) in the therapy of
this disease. Treatment with IFN-α  is more efficient when it
complemented by the antiviral ribavirin and the IFN-α  is conjugated
with polyethylene glycol to form peginterferon. In the near future
treatment of HCV with IFN-α may involve new anti-HCV agents that
are currently under development.


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## Body


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