Recent Developments in the Treatment of Chronic Hepatitis C

Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a serious problem in the United States, affecting more than 3 million individuals. Recently, the Food and Drug Administration approved 2 direct-acting, antiviral protease inhibitors for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C, genotype 1, which has greatly affected success rates. Therapy, however, remains complicated, with a difficult medication regimen and a wide array of often debilitating side effects possible. This article discusses the role of nurse practitioners in this new triple agent therapy and provides them with strategies for implementing effective education and management throughout treatment.