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New Tenofovir-Based Drug Provides Sustained Release and Effective Treatment of Hepatitis B
Last reviewed: 03.08.2025
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Scientists have developed an innovative prodrug based on tenofovir that promises to significantly improve the treatment of chronic hepatitis B (HBV). The results of the study were published in the prestigious journal Science Advances.
Chronic hepatitis B is one of the most common viral liver diseases, affecting hundreds of millions of people worldwide. Current treatment regimens include taking antiviral drugs such as tenofovir, which suppress the replication of the virus. However, standard forms of tenofovir require daily administration, which reduces patient compliance and, as a result, the effectiveness of therapy.
In the new study, the researchers presented a phosphonate prodrug designed specifically to provide sustained, sustained release of tenofovir in the body. This technology allows for a significant reduction in dosing frequency — potentially to once a week or less — improving patient comfort and the chances of successful long-term treatment.
The study included a thorough chemical analysis and biological testing of the new form of the drug. The results showed that the prodrug is effectively metabolized in the body, gradually releasing the active substance over a long period of time, while maintaining high antiviral activity and minimizing side effects.
In addition, the prodrug form demonstrates improved pharmacokinetic properties, allowing for stable levels of tenofovir in the blood, which is important for suppressing the virus and preventing the development of resistance.
The authors emphasize that this form of the drug could be a revolutionary step in the treatment of HBV, especially in regions with limited access to health services, where adherence to daily medication regimens is often problematic.
In the future, scientists plan to conduct clinical trials of the new drug on patients with chronic hepatitis B to confirm its safety and effectiveness in real-life conditions.
The significance of the discovery
This extended-release prodrug could significantly change the approach to chronic hepatitis B therapy, improving quality of life for patients and reducing the economic burden on health systems. In addition, similar technologies could be applied to other drugs that require long-term administration.