Hepatitis B
Baraclude (entecavir)Baraclude is a prescription medication used to treat chronic Hepatitis B. It is taken once per day on an empty stomach. Yet, Baraclude is not without its share of side effects and precautions. A condition known as lactic acidosis, a build up of lactic acid in the blood, can be a side effect of baraclude. In addition, baraclude should never be stopped abruptly because an exacerbation (sudden worsening) of the hepatitis b can occur. Finally, there has been some concern that baraclude can contribute to the incidence of HIV meducation resistance.
Interferon
Interferons are special proteins our body makes to fight off infectious agents such as viruses. Interferon used to treat Hepatitis B is a genetically engineered form of natural interferons. Administered in an injection just under the skin, Interferon is given anywhere from one to three times per week. Those who benefit most from interferon are those patients with active Hepatitis B and active liver disease (indicated by elevated liver enzymes). Side effects include "flu-like" symptoms that usually resolve in 1-2 weeks, decreased appetite, muscle and body aches, headache, weight loss, insomnia, decreased white blood cell count, elevated liver enzymes, and mood changes such as irritability and anxiety.
Understanding Liver Function Blood Tests
Lamivudine (Epivir HBV)
Epivir treats Hepatitis B by blocking the virus's ability to multiply. This drug is given in a higher doses when part of an HIV combination regimen. The most common dose for Hepatitis B is one 100mg tablet each day. Patients remain on therapy for about 1 year. Side effects are rare but may include an inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis) or numbness and tingling of the feet or hands (peripheral neuropathy). One issue with Epivir is resistance. Studies have shown that after being on Epivir for long periods, usually more than a year, resistance to the drug can occur. Hepatitis virus mutations can result, allowing for breakthrough hepatitis flares even while on therapy. For this reason therapy with Epivir is usually limited to one year.
Understanding Peripheral Neuropathy
Hepatitis C
Interferon and Pegylated InterferonInterferons are special proteins our body makes to fight off infectious agents such as viruses. Interferon is a genetically engineered form of natural interferons that are given to fight Hepatitis C. Administered in an injection just under the skin, Interferon is given anywhere from one to three times per week. Those who benefit most from interferon are those patients with active Hepatitis C and active liver disease (indicated by elevated liver enzymes). The decision to treat is based on the likelihood of response and the likelihood of developing cirrhosis. Side effects include "flu-like" symptoms that usually resolve in 1-2 weeks, decreased appetite, muscle and body aches, headache, weight loss, insomnia, decreased white blood cell count, elevated liver enzymes, and mood changes such as irritability and anxiety.
Pegylated Interferon Fact Sheet
Dealing with Medication Side Effects
Important Information!
Pegylated Interferon lasts longer and is better tolerated due to the binding of a polyethylene glycol molecule to interferon. Because it lasts longer, fewer doses have to be given each week to achieve the same affect.
Interferon / Ribavirin Combination (Rebetron)
Rebetron is a combination of interferon and the antiviral drug Ribavirin. Ribavirin is not effective in treating Hepatitis C alone, so it is used in combination with interferon. Rebetron is given in an injection three times per week. Side effects include all of those present with interferon as well as itching, rash, stomach pain, diarrhea, and anemia.
