Is It Justifiable to Withhold Treatment for Hepatitis C from Illicit-Drug Users?

Abstract

Approximately 3 million Americans are thought to be infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV).¹ HCV causes chronic infection in about 85 percent of infected persons, and cirrhosis may develop in as many as 20 percent of those with chronic infection.² HCV infection results in 8000 to 10,000 deaths annually and is the most common reason for liver transplantation in the United States. The rates of morbidity and mortality from HCV infection are increasing, and this trend is expected to continue in the coming decades.¹ Treatment with interferon, with or without ribavirin, for 6 to 12 months results in viral clearance . . .