The role of nucleoside analogues in hepatitis B infection

Abstract

All eyes are on the nucleoside analogues famciclovir and lamivudine regarding their potential as treatments for hepatitis B infection. At present, interferon-α is the only agent approved for this indication. Clinical trials have indicated that interferon-α is only effective in some 40% of patients infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV); thus, new therapies are urgently required. Currently, both lamivudine and famciclovir are in clinical trials for hepatitis B infection. An update of progress in this field of research was presented during a SmithKline Beecham-sponsored symposium at the International Conference on Infectious Disease [ Hong Kong; June 1996 ].