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Semin Liver Dis 2005; 25(1): 18-32
DOI: 10.1055/s-2005-864779
Copyright © 2005 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Management and Treatment of Injection Drug Users with Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) Infection and HCV/Human Immunodeficiency Virus Coinfection

Gregory J. Dore1 , David L. Thomas2
  • 1Associate Professor and Head, Viral Hepatitis Program, National Centre in HIV Epidemiology and Clinical Research, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, and Infectious Diseases Physician, HIV/Immunology/Infectious Diseases Clinical Services Unit, St. Vincent's Hospital, Darlinghurst, Australia
  • 2Professor of Medicine, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
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Publication History

Publication Date:
25 February 2005 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Injection drug use is the major mode of hepatitis C virus (HCV) transmission in developed countries. Despite this, relatively few current and recovering injection drug users (IDUs) have received HCV treatment. Studies among individuals with a recent history of injection drug use or those receiving drug dependency treatment have provided evidence that these groups can be successfully treated for chronic HCV infection. These studies have provided the impetus to change guidelines for treatment of current and recovering IDUs, with a move toward individualized HCV treatment assessment and the removal of defined periods of illicit drug use abstinence. Strategies to improve access to HCV treatment for current and recovering IDUs include drug dependency treatment education and training for hepatologists and other HCV treatment physicians, HCV treatment education and training for addiction medicine physicians, development of multidisciplinary clinics, and peer-based eduction and support for individuals considering and receiving HCV treatment.

KEYWORDS

Hepatitis C - HIV/HCV coinfection - injection drug users

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 Dr.
Gregory J Dore

National Centre in HIV Epidemiology and Clinical Research, The University of New South Wales, Level 2

376 Victoria Street, Darlinghurst

NSW, 2010 Australia

Email: gdore@nchecr.unsw.edu.au

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