A Study of Extended Therapy of PEGASYS (Peginterferon Alfa-2a) in Combination With COPEGUS (Ribavirin) in Patients With Chronic Hepatitis C and Slow Response

An Open-Label, Multi-Center Study Evaluating the Effect on Viral Activity and the Safety and Tolerability of Extended Treatment of Pegasys® (Peginterferon Alfa 2a ) in Combination With Copegus® (Ribavirin) in Genotype 1, 2 and 3 Chronic Hepatitis C Patients Defined as Slow Responders/Non-RVR

This open-label, multi-center study will evaluate the safety and tolerability and the effect on viral activity of a combined PEGASYS and COPEGUS extended therapy in patients with chronic hepatitis C with genotype 1, 2 and 3. Patients who completed 48 weeks (genotype 1) or 24 weeks (genotype 2 and 3) of standard treatment with PEGASYS and COPEGUS and were identified as slow virological responders will be enrolled in this study in order to receive additional 24 weeks of treatment. PEGASYS 180 micrograms will be administered sc once weekly and COPEGUS will be administered as 800 mg, or 1000-1200 mg daily oral doses. The anticipated time on study treatment is 24 weeks. The target sample size is 50-150 patients.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adult patients >/= 18 years of age
• Chronic hepatitis C, genotype 1, 2, 3
• Compensated liver disease
• Patients who completed 48 weeks or 24 weeks of standard treatment with PEGASYS and COPEGUS and were identified as slow virological responders

Exclusion Criteria:

• Decompensated liver disease
• Signs or symptoms of hepatocellular carcinoma
• Uncontrolled hypoglycaemia, hyperglycaemia and diabetes mellitus