An experimental drug for chronic hepatitis B has shown a functional cure in about 20% of patients in two international trials. - The drug, bepirovirsen, suppresses viral replication and stimulates the immune system.
- Patients achieved undetectable virus levels for six months after stopping all treatment. - FDA decision expected in October; regulators in Japan, China, and Europe also reviewing.
- Experts call it a major step but caution more research is needed on long-term durability.