Side Effects Of Interferon Treatment For Hepatitis C

The most common side effects of these drugs are fatigue, fever, headache, muscle pains and insomnia. Gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea, loss of appetite and diarrhea are also common. It is notable that these are also the symptoms one experiences when the body normally reacts to a virus infection as it naturally fights the infection with its own interferon. Less common side effects include hair loss, skin rashes, chest pain, difficulty breathing and visual changes.

Interferon can lower blood cell counts, leading to anemia or increased susceptibility to infections. The treatment might affect thyroid function, causing it to be overactive or underactive.

To reduce the side effects, doctors may adjust the dosages of interferon and ribavirin. Patients are also advised to take acetaminophen for headaches, fever and body pains, and to take some rest and enough sleep for other symptoms. Supportive therapy is often given because most symptoms may subside as the body adapts to the medications.

How Effective is Interferon Therapy?

This depends on how much virus is in the blood, the genotype of the virus, and how much your liver has already been damaged. People who have been infected with hepatitis C genotype 1 are the most difficult to treat and will probably need 12 months of combination treatments. Those who have been infected with genotypes 2 or 3 may need at least six months of treatment with pegylated interferon and ribavirin. People who have low levels of the virus in the blood and have a low level of liver damage when treatment starts are also more likely to respond to treatment. In general, studies show that interferon treatment for genotype 1 is effective in up 50% of patients and higher for those with genotype 2 or 3 (80%).

A few patients, however, will not respond to initial treatment or will experience a relapse after treatment. Therapy may be repeated to reduce liver inflammation, slow down the progression of liver damage and reduce the risk of cirrhosis or liver cancer.

Coping with Hepatitis C and Side Effects of Interferon Treatment

Patients may experience various symptoms of the disease or side effects of treatment with antiviral drugs. To cope with these, doctors advise patients to slow down, adjust their schedules and allow themselves more time to rest. Although strenuous exercise is not recommended after interferon treatment, one may do some physical activity as tolerated. This will improve your energy levels and reduce depression, which some patients experience.

Over-the-counter pain relievers can alleviate flu-like symptoms. For depression or mood changes, consult your doctor - they might refer you to a mental health specialist or adjust your medication.

Read More: Hepatitis C Kills More Americans Than Hiv

It may be necessary to consult a dietician for a suitable diet. Patients with hepatitis often lose their appetite and experience gastrointestinal discomfort such as nausea. A nutritious diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables is recommended. Salty foods must be avoided.

It is also important to avoid taking unnecessary drugs and alcoholic beverages. Consult your doctor about using prescription medicines, over-the-counter drugs and dietary supplements. People who have an alcohol or drug abuse problem must seek professional help to deal with their condition to reduce their risk of liver failure. Family and group support are also important for patients coping with the stigma of the disease.

While it may seem challenging, focusing on the end goal of treatment - eradicating the virus - can provide motivation. Remember, medical treatments continue to evolve, and the journey with Hepatitis C today is more hopeful than ever before.