Contributions of peginterferon and ribavirin pharmacotherapy monitoring in a chronic hepatitis C patient

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Treatment for hepatitis C through peginterferon and ribavirin combination therapy aims to halt disease progression by inhibiting viral replication. Due to their therapeutic efficacy combined with adverse reactions, these drugs denote specific indications and contraindications. OBJECTIVE: The objective of the present study was to follow up the virological response presented by a patient diagnosed with early stage hepatitis C by monitoring pharmacotherapy and adverse reactions. METHOD: The study consisted in descriptive and qualitative study of a patient, in which laboratory tests, prescriptions of medications prescribed by physicians, reports provided by the patient about the symptoms presented and the description of the evolution of the disease were analyzed for 11 months. An analysis of one month prior to treatment initiation and one month after treatment completion was also considered for leukocyte count, platelets, hemoglobin quantification and TSH. Patient’s body mass was monitored before, during and eight months after treatment. RESULTS: Moderate haematological and endocrine adverse reactions such as leukopenia, decreased platelet count, hypohemoglobinemia, decreased thyroid function and weight loss were observed. DISCUSSION: Although adverse reactions have been identified, sustained virological response was achieved during treatment, proving therapeutic efficacy. This fact was possible due to patient monitoring, dose readjustment and clinical follow-up over 11 months of treatment. We emphasize the need for follow-up to analyze the drug benefit / risk ratio, treatment adherence and patient safety assurance.