In a clinical study of 327 patients, among those with Hep C genotypes 1 and 4 without prior Hep C treatment taking SOVALDI + ribavirin + peginterferon alfa for a treatment duration of 12 weeks, the cure rate was 90% (289 out of 320 patients studied).

Is that $80k the list price or negotiated price for GILD's drug. I haven't followed this sector in 4 or 5 years(was following VRTX), what's the cure rate of these drugs now, 90% +.Quick back of the hand calc.10 years ago, the cure rate(sustained virologic response) was about 50/50, after having completed a 48 week course of treatment. Drugs used were peginterferon and ribavirin. $1000/wk for the drugs ($48,000).During the course of treatment dozens of CBC blood tests, as well as dozens of viral load pcr tests were done ($15,000+) in order to monitor treatment progression. Many couldn't complete the full treatment.Chances are during treatment blood booster drugs would be needed (whites/hgb) in order for the patient to even complete the full 48 week course of treatment ($20,000+) The treatment was only administered by a specialist (hepatologist/gastro) and closely monitored over the 48 weeks at a much higher cost than a GP.Chances of successful treatment (svr), 60% at best. Many relapsed after completing the treatment and would have to be retreated again. (start doubling costs)As I said, Hep C treatment costs have not increased much in a decade.