New study tests faster hepatitis c detection for drug users

NCT ID NCT04014179

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study looked at two faster ways to test for hepatitis C in people who recently injected drugs and visit needle exchange programs. One method uses a fingerstick test with results in about an hour, and the other uses a dried blood spot sent to a lab. The goal was to see if these methods help more people start treatment compared to the usual testing process. Over 1,800 people took part across multiple sites in Australia.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

What this could lead to

If successful, this could show that simpler, faster HCV testing helps more people start treatment, pointing toward better public health strategies.

What could go wrong

This is a completed study comparing testing methods, not a new treatment. Results may not apply to other settings or populations.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

chronic hepatitis C virus infection hepatitis C virus infection

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Alcohol and Drug Harm Reduction Biala

    Brisbane, Queensland, 4000, Australia

  • Bankstown NSP

    Bankstown, New South Wales, 2200, Australia

  • Coffs Harbour Primary NSP

    Coffs Harbour, New South Wales, 2450, Australia

  • Gosford NSP

    Gosford, New South Wales, 2250, Australia

  • Grafton Primary NSP

    Grafton, New South Wales, 2460, Australia

  • Inala

    Inala, Queensland, 4077, Australia

  • Kempsey Primary NSP

    Kempsey, New South Wales, 2440, Australia

  • Kobi House

    Toowoomba, Queensland, 4350, Australia

  • Liverpool Southwest NSP

    Liverpool, New South Wales, 2170, Australia

  • Noarlunga Health Precinct

    Old Noarlunga, South Australia, 5168, Australia

  • Northern DASSA

    Elizabeth, South Australia, 5112, Australia

  • Orana Centre

    Wollongong, New South Wales, 2500, Australia

  • Severin St NSP (Youth Link)

    Cairns, Queensland, 4870, Australia

  • UC Adelaide

    Adelaide, South Australia, 5000, Australia

  • WSLHD Drug Health - Blacktown NSP

    Blacktown, New South Wales, 2148, Australia

  • WSLHD Drug Health - Mt Druitt NSP

    Mount Druitt, New South Wales, 2770, Australia

  • Wonggangga Turtpandi Aboriginal Primary Health Care Services

    Adelaide, South Australia, 5015, Australia