<p>The recommended duration of treatment for patients previously untreated with interferon is 24 to 48 weeks. After 24 weeks of treatment virologic response should be assessed. Treatment discontinuation should be considered in any patient who has not achieved an HCV RNA below the limit of detection of the assay by 24 weeks. There are no safety and efficacy data on treatment for longer than 48 weeks in the previously untreated patient population. In patients who relapse following interferon therapy, the recommended duration of treatment is 24 weeks. There are no safety and efficacy data on treatment for longer than 24 weeks in the relapse patient populations.<br />
<br />
<strong>Ribavirin + Interferon:&nbsp;</strong>Genotype Ribavirin Daily Interferon alpha-2a Duration or interferon alpha-2b.</p>

<ul>
	<li><strong>All &lt;75 kg:&nbsp;</strong>(400+600) mg 3 MIU 3 times weekly 48 weeks Genotypes subcutaneously (Genotype1&amp;4)</li>
	<li><strong>&gt;75 kg:&nbsp;</strong>(600+600) mg 24 weeks (Genotype2&amp;3)</li>
</ul>

<p><strong>Ribavirin + Peg-Interferon:&nbsp;</strong>Genotype Ribavirin Daily Peg-Interferon alpha-2a Duration or Peg-interferon alpha-2b:</p>

<ul>
	<li><strong>1 &amp; 4 &lt; 75 kg</strong>: (400+600) mg 180 gm once weekly 48 weeks</li>
	<li><strong>&gt; 75 kg</strong>: (600+600) mg subcutaneously 2 &amp; 3 (400+400) mg 24 weeks</li>
</ul>

<p>Ribavirin may be administered without regard to food, but should be administered in a consistent manner. Drink plenty of water while being treated with this medication; drinking water will decrease the risk of serious side effects.</p>