Acute hepatitis C, a virus that attacks the liver, is a short-term illness that lasts for six months after exposure to the hepatitis C virus. It develops into chronic hepatitis C in 75 to 85 percent of cases. Left untreated, it can lead to liver damage, liver failure, and even death. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), only chronic hepatitis C is treatable with two FDA approved drugs--interferon and ribavirin. Acute hepatitis cannot be treated.
Combination Therapy
Combination therapy, which is than interferon or ribavarin, is currently the first recommended treatment for eliminating Hepatitis C. It uses pegylated interferon injections combined with oral doses of ribavirin to eliminate the virus from the body.
According to the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, combination therapy lasts between 24 to 48 weeks, eliminating hepatitis in 20 to 80 percent of all cases.
According to the Mayo Clinic, combination therapy can increase suicidal behavior or psychosis. It is not recommended for people with a history of uncontrolled depression. People who are pregnant, have autoimmune disease, have untreated thyroid disease, or drink alcohol or use drugs should are also recommended not to take it.
Standard Interferon
According to the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, standard interferon is also used by itself to treat Hepatitis C. Interferon is a naturally occurring protein the body that helps fight infections. Standard interferon, nicknamed short-acting interferon, is used three times a week to fight Hepatitis C. It is given as an injection. Interferon also has significant side effects, including irritability, depression, loss of concentration, memory problems, skin irritation, tiredness, insomnia, and severe symptoms similar to the flu.
Standard interferon is being used less today because there are more effective drugs that fight Hepatitis C.
Pegylated Interferon
Pegylated interferon is slightly more effective than standard interferon. It is the most common form of interferon used today by itself or with combination therapy. Unlike standard interferon, pegylated interferon is injected once a week. Pegylated interferon has the same side effects as standard interferon.
Ribavirin
Ribavirin is an antibiotic drug commonly used in combination with pegylated interferon. According to MedicineNet.com, it is not usually administered on its own because it has little effect on Hepatitis C. Combining it with pegylated interferon increases its ability to fight the Hepatitis C virus, however. Unlike interferon, it is taken in tablet form, taken two times a day to fight the virus.
Ribavarin has less severe side effects compared to other drugs. It can cause anemia, nasal congestion, skin irritation, tiredness, and anemia. It can also cause birth defects.
Tags: fight Hepatitis, more effective, side effects, standard interferon, with pegylated interferon, According United