Hepatitis C Treatments Guide
Hepatitis C Treatments Guide
Understanding and Managing Hepatitis C: Effective Treatments and Prevention Tips
Did you know that there were nearly 68,000 new cases of acute hepatitis C and over 107,000 cases of chronic hepatitis C reported in the United States in 2020? Hepatitis C is a viral infection of the liver that can have serious consequences if left untreated. In this article, we will explore the most common treatments for hepatitis C, including antiviral medications, lifestyle changes, and surgery.
Hepatitis C Medication Treatments
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Hepatitis C Online recommend several antiviral medications to treat hepatitis C, such as Elbasvir-Grazoprevir (Zepatier), Glecaprevir-Pibrentasvir (Mavyret), Ledipasvir-Sofosbuvir (Harvoni), and more. According to Dr. Melissa Jenkins, an infectious disease specialist at MetroHealth Medical Center, sofosbuvir-velpatasvir (Epclusa), glecaprevir-pibrentasvir (Mavyret), and sofosbuvir-velpatasvir-voxilaprevir (Vosevi) are the most commonly used medications.
These antiviral medications have a remarkable 90% cure rate when taken for 8 to 12 weeks. They work by clearing the hepatitis C virus from the bloodstream and reducing inflammation and scarring in the liver. It is important to note that these medications are usually prescribed for chronic hepatitis C, but they may also be used for acute infections.
To prevent coinfection, it is recommended to get vaccinated for hepatitis A and hepatitis B if you have hepatitis C.
Non-Medication Hepatitis C Treatments
In addition to medication, there are several non-medication treatments that can help manage hepatitis C. The number one recommendation is to avoid alcohol entirely, as there is no safe amount of alcohol for someone with hepatitis C. Alcohol can further damage the liver and worsen the effects of the infection.
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Other lifestyle changes include maintaining a healthy diet, getting plenty of fluids and rest, and monitoring HCV levels through regular blood tests. Combining these strategies can sometimes clear up an acute hepatitis C infection without the need for medication.
Since sharing needles or drug paraphernalia is a common mode of hepatitis C transmission, seeking help for substance use is crucial to avoid reinfection. Utilizing syringe service program needle exchanges and avoiding the sharing of needles and drug paraphernalia are essential to reducing the risk of reinfection.
Hepatitis C Surgeries
Hepatitis C, if left untreated, can lead to severe health conditions such as cirrhosis, liver cancer, and liver failure. In fact, it is the leading cause of liver transplants in the United States. Cirrhosis, which is characterized by scarring (fibrosis) in the liver, can develop even in non-drinkers.
Liver transplant surgery may be necessary if the liver is severely damaged and fails to function properly. During the procedure, a partial liver from a donor with a compatible blood type and similar liver size is transplanted, replacing the damaged liver.
Surgery for liver cancer may also be required for individuals with hepatitis C. This surgical procedure involves removing the cancerous section of the liver, allowing healthy tissues to regenerate, often within 4 to 6 weeks.
Optimizing Hepatitis C Treatment
Early detection is key to managing hepatitis C effectively and reducing the risk of liver damage. The CDC recommends getting tested for hepatitis C at the age of 18 and in specific situations such as during pregnancy, drug use or history of drug use, existing liver conditions, HIV positive status, exposure to infected blood, receipt of clotting concentrate factors before 1987, organ or blood transfusions before July 1992, or if born to a mother with hepatitis C.
Treating hepatitis C earlier, before the development of cirrhosis, can prevent further complications. Regular check-ups with healthcare professionals are vital to monitor the effectiveness of antiviral medication and overall liver health. By getting rid of hepatitis C, the progression of advanced complications can be slowed down or even prevented.
It is crucial to raise awareness about the importance of hepatitis C prevention and treatment. With appropriate medical interventions, lifestyle modifications, and early detection, we can help individuals effectively manage hepatitis C and improve their overall well-being.
Source: Melissa Jenkins, MD, infectious disease specialist, MetroHealth, Cleveland, Ohio
