Simeprevir for the treatment of hepatitis C virus infection

Abstract

Laure Izquierdo,1 François Helle,1 Catherine François,1,2 Sandrine Castelain,1,2 Gilles Duverlie,1,2 Etienne Brochot1,2 1Virology Research Unit, Jules Verne University of Picardie, 2Department of Virology, Amiens University Hospital, Amiens, France Abstract: Simeprevir (TMC435, Olysio™), a second-generation hepatitis C virus (HCV) protease inhibitor, has been recently approved for the treatment of genotype 1 chronic hepatitis C in combination with pegylated interferon and ribavirin. This molecule has very different characteristics from first-generation protease inhibitors. Results from trials show that simeprevir is highly effective and safe, with few adverse events. We discuss the specific features of this new treatment option for HCV infection, in terms of in vitro data, pharmacological data, and clinical trials. We also discuss the impact of Q80K polymorphism at baseline. Studies evaluating interferon-free regimens with simeprevir are ongoing. Future combinations of two or more direct-acting antiviral agents, targeting different viral enzymes and with synergistic antiviral effects, will be approved, allowing treatment of pan-genotypic HCV with optimized sustained virologic responses. Simeprevir will undoubtedly be part of future treatment strategies. Keywords: simeprevir, protease inhibitor, direct-acting antiviral agent, hepatitis C virus