Treating Hepatitis C: Medications

Hepatitis C is treated using two medications that help your body fight the hepatitis C virus (HCV). Treatment takes time and commitment. In some people, treatment completely rids the body of HCV.

During treatment, follow your doctor's instructions exactly.

Medications

• Interferon is a protein that helps your immune system target HCV. It's injected one or more times a week for up to 12 months. Most people are taught how to do these shots at home.

• Ribavirin makes it harder for HCV to reproduce inside the body. These pills are often taken along with interferon to make treatment more effective. The pills are taken twice a day for up to 12 months.

Side Effects

Hepatitis C treatment can cause side effects. They may include:

• Feeling like you have the flu. Symptoms include fever, upset stomach, headache, feeling tired, and not being hungry.

• Depression. This is more likely if you have a history of mental illness or depression.

• Anemia (having fewer red blood cells than normal). You may feel weak and get bruises more often. Anemia can be life-threatening for patients with heart or blood vessel disease.

• Birth defects. Hepatitis C treatment should not be done during or right before pregnancy.

• Other side effects. These include mood swings, rash, thyroid problems, coughing, and shortness of breath.