AN OVERVIEW ON CURRENT STATUS OF DRUGS USED FOR TREATING HEPATITIS C (HCV)

ABSTRACTHepatitis C virus (HCV) infection remains a major global public health burdenbecauseof its ability to progress to chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma.The therapeutic management of HCV has evolved significantly over the last few decades,transitioning from interferon-based regimens with limited efficacy and high adverse effectprofiles to modern Direct-Acting Antivirals (DAAs) with excellent cure rates. DAAs target key viral proteins, including NS3/4A protease, NS5A replication complex, and NS5B RNA-dependent RNA polymerase, enabling shorter treatment durations and sustained virologic response (SVR) rates above 90%. Although older agents, such as interferon and ribavirin, arenow rarely used, they have historically contributed to early antiviral strategies. The introductionof pangenotypic DAAs has further simplified treatment protocols across all HCV genotypes.Despite these advances, challenges such as resistance-associated substitutions, high drug costs,and the lack of a preventive vaccine continue to hinder global elimination efforts. Continuedresearch, improved affordability, and large-scale screening programs are essential for theeffective control and eradication of HCV infection worldwide.