Eligibility for treatment of hepatitis C virus infection among young injection drug users in 3 US cities

Clin Infect Dis. 2006 Mar 1;42(5):669-72. doi: 10.1086/499951. Epub 2006 Jan 20.

Abstract

Among 404 injection drug users aged 18-35 who tested positive for hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA, 96% had conditions that are potentially unwarranted contraindications for HCV treatment (e.g., problem drinking, moderate-to-severe depression, and recent drug injection). Restrictive eligibility criteria may deny treatment to a large proportion of patients who could benefit from it.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Antiviral Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Hepatitis C / drug therapy*
  • Hepatitis C / epidemiology*
  • Humans
  • Patient Selection*
  • RNA, Viral / blood
  • Risk Factors
  • Substance Abuse, Intravenous*
  • United States

Substances

  • Antiviral Agents
  • RNA, Viral