Schering-Plough commits to chronic hepatitis C research

Schering-Plough has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing the science and treatment of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection with several key data presentations at the European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL) 42nd annual meeting in Barcelona, Spain, April 11-15.

Among these are several studies with PEGINTRON (peginterferon alfa-2b) and REBETOL (ribavirin) combination therapy, a current standard of care in the treatment of chronic hepatitis C, evaluating how results at important treatment milestones can help physicians make informed treatment decisions.

Schering-Plough also is exploring novel therapeutic approaches, both through targeted internal research programs and strategic collaborations. Chief among these efforts is boceprevir (SCH 503034), Schering-Plough's investigational oral HCV protease inhibitor currently in Phase II clinical development for treating chronic hepatitis C. Individual in vitro studies of boceprevir in combination with investigational oral HCV polymerase inhibitors from Wyeth/ViroPharma and Idenix/Novartis have been completed and will be presented at EASL.

"Schering-Plough is proud of its long-term role in introducing innovative treatments to the field of hepatitis," said Robert J. Spiegel, M.D., chief medical officer and senior vice president, Schering-Plough Research Institute. "Our vision with PEGINTRON, our cornerstone HCV therapy, and ongoing work with boceprevir, our investigational oral HCV protease inhibitor, is to continue to advance the science and deliver additional treatment options for patients with hepatitis C infection."

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