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Chronic Hepatitis B Treatment Guidelines

The treatment of hepatitis B can be complicated, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that infected people should see doctors who are experienced in the management of the disease. Treatment depends on a number of factors, including how advanced disease of the liver is, and treatment options will therefore vary between individuals.

  1. Prophylaxis

    • If an individual knows she has been exposed to hepatitis B virus (HBV), it is possible to stop the development of infection if medical attention is sought quickly. According to the Mayo Clinic, the administration of hepatitis B immune globulin 24 hours or less after exposure helps stop the development of HBV infection.

    Testing

    • The CDC and the Mayo Clinic recommend testing of liver function and for liver damage as an important element of treatment for the disease. Not every person who is infected with HBV needs treatment with antiviral drugs (or further treatment), and testing for liver damage, including cirrhosis and the possible development of liver cancer, can help a doctor decide which treatments, if any, are appropriate for her patient.

    Antivirals

    • A number of antiviral drugs are available to manage infection with HBV. They work against viruses the same way that antibiotics work against bacteria. The antiviral drugs used in the treatment of HBV infection include adefovir dipivoxil, interferon alfa-2b, pegylated interferon alfa-2a, lamivudine, entecavir and telbivudine, according to the CDC. A doctor experienced in treating HBV can decide which medications are appropriate for her patient.

    Transplant

    • If severe liver disease has developed as a consequence of chronic hepatitis B infection, a liver transplant may be necessary, according to the Mayo Clinic. Other treatments may be available to treat the development of liver cancer, although a transplant is also an option in this case.

    Considerations

    • There are other steps that a person infected with HBV and their doctors can take to promote the health of the liver. People with HBV should consume a diet high in fruits and vegetables as well as avoid the consumption of alcohol. Doctors and patients should work together to make sure that all medications are safe for the liver, according to the Mayo Clinic.

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