Investigational drugs

Researchers are studying the following drugs for use in treating hepatitis C:

• Thymosin alpha-1 (Zadaxin, by SciClone) is a protein that enhances the body’s immune system to counteract viruses.
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• BILN 2061 (by Boehringer Ingelheim) is an HCV protease inhibitor that blocks an enzyme released by HCV, thereby inhibiting viral replication.
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• ISIS 14803 (by Isis Pharmaceuticals and Elan) is a nucleoside analog that disrupts proteins during viral cell division, thereby decreasing the ability of HCV to multiply.
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• Other interferons are being investigated, including recombinant interferon beta-1a (by Serono Lab), omega interferon (by BioMedicines), and VX-497 (by Vertex Pharmaceuticals).