Brazil’s Fight against Hepatitis C — Universalism, Local Production, and Patents

Resumo:

The emergence of new direct-acting antiviral drugs (DAAs) has revolutionized the treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV); these more effective and better tolerated drugs allow for cure rates exceeding 90%. The price of these new therapies, however, is prohibitive in many countries, so creative strategies are needed for ensuring access. Brazil, a pioneer in the fight against HIV/AIDS, is now at the forefront in addressing HCV. The country’s strategy, which combines evidence-based treatment protocols and innovative initiatives for local production of generic DAAs, needs to be considered in light of ongoing conflicts over pharmaceutical patents.

Link para download:
https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMp1812959