SciClone Pharmaceuticals: Product Development

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ZADAXIN^®

HCV

Market
Trials
Data

HBV

Market
Trials
Data

Cancer

Approximately 350 million people are chronically infected with the hepatitis B virus (HBV) worldwide. HBV is most prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa, Asia and the Pacific. The worldwide market for hepatitis B therapeutics was approximately $480 million in 2004.

Currently, pegylated interferon, lamivudine and adefovir dipivoxil are approved for the treatment of HBV. Pegylated interferon is the most effective therapy in eliminating the virus and producing a cure. Lamivudine and adefovir dipivoxil are effective in suppressing the virus, but studies show that prolonged use of lamivudine can cause serious viral mutations and eventually lead to drug resistance. After 5 years of lamivudine therapy, 69% of patients report viral mutations.