Scientific Poster Session III - Original Research

Abstract

In 2020, it was estimated that more than 2 million people in the United States had chronic hepatitis C (HCV), with the most common mode of transmission being injection drug use. Our pharmacist-led service for HCV was established at a methadone clinic to support a high risk population. Data is limited in patients who have incomplete adherence to direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) for chronic HCV.

Research Question or Hypothesis:

We sought to determine adherence rates to HCV DAAs in a pharmacist-led clinic in patients on methadone maintenance therapy.

Study Design:

Single center, retrospective chart review

Methods:

Patients enrolled in the clinic during the study period who were greater than or equal to 18 years old with a HCV viral load obtained 12 weeks post-treatment were included. Data on baseline characteristics, substance use disorder history and current use, regimen, adherence rates, adverse effects and pharmacist interventions were collected. The primary objective was to characterize adherence rates. The secondary objective was to determine sustained viral response rates at 12 weeks post-treatment (SVR12).

Results:

A total of 57 patients met the inclusion criteria with 33% (n=19) reporting incomplete adherence at any follow-up visit. Of the nineteen patients with adherence concerns, 15.8 % (n=3) took doses late, 63.2% (n=12) missed fewer than 7 days, and 21.1% (n=4) missed 7 to 28 days of therapy. SVR12 was achieved in 91.2 % (n=52) of patients. Two patients with a viral load at 12 weeks achieved SVR at 24 weeks (SVR24) without further intervention. Of the remaining three patients, all reported a mild adverse effect from treatment and one patient reported incomplete adherence and missed fewer than 7 days of therapy.

Conclusion:

Although one-third of patients reported incomplete adherence to DAAs, treatment success was above 90%. Pharmacists can counsel and support patients throughout their HCV treatment course to ensure continued adherence and treatment success.

Presenting Author

Authors