Hepatitis B Clinical Trial opens in New Zealand

In New Zealand, approximately 100,000 people are living with chronic Hepatitis B, which is defined as having had the infection for longer than six months.

According to the Hepatitis Foundation of New Zealand, 200-300 people die from Hepatitis B related liver disease in New Zealand every year.

A clinical trial is now open for people who have been diagnosed with chronic Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) infection, who have not had treatment for this condition in the last 2 years. Other entry requirements apply.

This clinical trial has been reviewed and approved by the New Zealand Medicines and Medical Devices Safety Authority (MedSafe).

The purpose of this research study is to assess the effectiveness and safety of a novel medicine for the treatment of patients with chronic Hepatitis B.

Participating clinics include leading hospitals and medical centres.  

The study will assess the effects of the study medicine alone or in combination with other Hepatitis B treatments such as entecavir and pegylated interferon alpha 2a therapy.

Patients will need to agree to participate in the study for approximately 96 weeks, involving 31 clinic visits and a preliminary screening period of up to 60 days.

Travel expenses to clinic appointments will be reimbursed upon presentation of receipts or appropriate documentation.

Patients will need to provide written informed consent to enter into the study.

Clinic staff will discuss any other factors that may determine eligibility. 

If you think you might be eligible please click here to find your nearest participating clinic. Contact them for more information and book a medical screening appointment. Click through to Clinic contacts.

The study can enroll up to 96 people. All study medication, medical appointments, and tests are free of charge.