Published in:
01-04-2003 | Original Research Article
Peginterferon α-2a (40kD) [Pegasys®] Improves HR-QOL Outcomes Compared with Unmodified Interferon α-2a [Roferon®-A]
In Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C
Published in: PharmacoEconomics | Issue 5/2003
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Background: Use of unmodified interferon α-2a in chronic hepatitis C is associated with impaired health-related quality of life during therapy. Treatment with peginterferon α-2a (40kD) provides an improved sustained response over unmodified interferon α-2a.
Objectives: To compare health-related quality of life during treatment for patients receiving peginterferon α-2a (40kD) [Pegasys®] versus unmodified interferon α-2a [Roferon®].
Design: A randomised, international, multicentre, open-label, parallel group study.
Setting: 36 centres worldwide.
Patients: Interferon-naïve patients (n = 531) with chronic hepatitis C.
Interventions: Peginterferon α-2a (40kD) 180µg once a week (n = 267) for 48 weeks or unmodified interferon α-2a 6 million IU three times a week for 12 weeks followed by 36 weeks of 3 million IU three times a week (n = 264).
Measurements: Fatigue Severity Scale and 36-item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36).
Results: At weeks 2 and 12, differences favouring peginterferon α-2a (40kD) were seen on seven of eight domains and both summary scores of the SF-36 (p < 0.05 to p < 0.01). At weeks 2, 12 and 24, patients receiving peginterferon α-2a (40kD) had less disabling fatigue (p < 0.01) than those receiving unmodified interferon α-2a.
Conclusion: Treatment with peginterferon α-2a (40kD) is associated with less disabling fatigue and less impairment in patient functioning and well-being during treatment than unmodified interferon α-2a. In addition to safety and efficacy, the impact on health-related quality of life may be an important consideration for physicians when selecting an optimal treatment regimen.