Johnson & Johnson (JNJ), Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated (VRTX): Inside HCV, An Interview with Janssen

But you look at our studies, you look at other people’s studies. Talking about null responders … some people with cirrhosis who’re getting cured at a very high rate. It looks very good for patients. It’s probably the best time ever to have hepatitis C. There are very promising treatments coming along.

BB:
I’ve spoken to hepatitis C patients in the past couple of weeks as I’ve increased my coverage, and there’s universal excitement about what’s coming down the pipes.

GP: I think it is the fastest-moving field in the history of medicine. I cannot think of anything else. I was just talking to people with expertise in other areas, trying to understand it. They’ve never seen such a fast evolution over such a short period of time.

Before 2010,  it was taking 48 weeks to cure 40% of the patients. And now we’re talking about 8 weeks with cure rates of 95% with minimal side effects. It’s amazing.

Brandy Betz has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Gilead Sciences (NASDAQ:GILD) and Johnson & Johnson. The Motley Fool owns shares of Johnson & Johnson.

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