Janssen launches new hepatitis C support scheme

Janssen has introduced a new support programme for hepatitis C patients with the aim of promoting healthy living and treatment adherence.

The MyIncivo scheme will be run in partnership with Bupa Home Healthcare and is tailored for patients using Janssen's drug Incivo (telaprevir), along with Roche's Pegasys and Copegus.

Elements of the programme include SMS alerts for dosage reminders and guidance on possible Incivo side effects, as well as general advice on how diet and lifestyle improvements can help to deal with the condition, reports InPharm.

It is designed to complement the care offered by patients' hepatitis C specialist doctors, as well as being accessible to partners, carers or family members.

Dr Peter Barnes, medical director at Janssen, said: "We are launching this programme to support patients 24 hours a day, seven days a week for the full duration of their treatment if they are initiated on a telaprevir-based treatment regimen."

Last month, the company formed a new partnership with Forma Therapeutics, which will see the two organisations jointly developing and commercialising cancer therapies.