Allergy drug inhibits hepatitis C

NIH | APRIL 9, 2015

An over-the-counter drug indicated to treat allergy symptoms limited hepatitis C virus activity in infected mice. A new study suggest that the drug, chlorcyclizine HCl (CCZ), potentially could be used to treat the virus in people.

The hepatitis C virus (HCV) causes liver inflammation and often leads to serious complications such as cirrhosis. Early diagnosis and treatment of HCV can prevent liver damage. Drugs are available to treat HCV, but costs can reach tens of thousands of dollars.

The study found that CCZ blocked the early stage of HCV infection likely by impairing the ability of the virus to enter human liver cells grafted in the mice. The outcome was similar to that of commonly used antiviral drugs but without those drugs’ toxic side effects.

The researchers will next study how the drug affects people. CCZ is currently used for the treatment of allergies, not for HCV.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE

Widely-available antibiotics could be used in the treatment of ‘superbug’ MRSA

Some MRSA infections could be tackled using widely-available antibiotics, suggests new research from an international collaboration led by scientists at the University of Cambridge and the Wellcome Sanger Institute.

Study finds factors that may influence influenza vaccine effectiveness

The long-held approach to predicting seasonal influenza vaccine effectiveness may need to be revisited, new research suggests.

Gut microbes may affect cancer treatment

The effectiveness of certain cancer therapies may depend on microbes that live in the intestine, according to a study in mice. The findings suggest that antibiotics used to treat infections might hinder the effects of anti-cancer therapies.

Sugary Fruit Juices May Increase Risk of Early Death

A new study finds sugary drinks as well as fruit juices are not healthy and may shorten your life.

DNA changes predict longevity

Certain DNA changes can better predict a person’s life expectancy than traditional risk factors such as age.

Health Benefits of Olives and Olive Oil

A research team discovered that the olive-derived compound oleuropein helps prevent type 2 diabetes.