Chronic hepatitis C: new cause for optimism

Many more drug combinations are currently being studied and are showing similar rates of efficacy. Though the current studies are small, "it’s hard to argue when you get 100% response rates," Dr. Ghany said.

Although toxicity remains a looming problem – some experimental agents have already been withdrawn on toxicity concerns – Dr. Ghany said he remains optimistic that a safer yet equally or more potent combination will emerge.

Future therapies also are likely to come with shorter treatment times and to be "interferon- and perhaps even ribavirin-free," he said, suggesting it’s not inconceivable that one day soon "we will be treating HCV with a single coformulated pill, perhaps for a duration of only 12 weeks."

Dr. Ghany disclosed no conflicts of interest.