How do you treat hepatitis b and c?

Hepatitis B:

Treatment for hepatitis B focuses on managing the virus and preventing complications. Options for treating hepatitis B may include:

Antiviral medications: These medications work by suppressing the hepatitis B virus (HBV) and reducing its replication. Examples include entecavir (Baraclude), tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (Viread), tenofovir alafenamide (Vemlidy), and others.

Interferon: Interferon is an immune system modulator that can help the body fight the HBV. It is usually reserved for people who are unable to tolerate antiviral medications.

Pegylated interferon: Pegylated interferon is a longer-acting form of interferon that is often used in combination with antiviral medications.

Liver transplant: In some severe cases, a liver transplant may be necessary if the liver has become damaged or failed due to hepatitis B.

Hepatitis C:

Like hepatitis B, treatment for hepatitis C aims to eliminate or suppress the hepatitis C virus (HCV) and prevent further liver damage. Treatment options for hepatitis C include:

Antiviral medications: Newer drugs called direct-acting antiviral (DAA) medications have revolutionized the treatment of hepatitis C. DAAs target specific proteins involved in the HCV replication cycle to suppress the virus. These treatments are highly effective and can cure hepatitis C in many cases. Examples of DAAs include sofosbuvir (Sovaldi), ledipasvir (Harvoni), and others.

Ribavirin: Ribavirin is an older antiviral medication that was commonly used in combination with interferon before the DAA era. It is still sometimes used in specific situations.

Interferon and pegylated interferon: As in hepatitis B, interferon and pegylated interferon are occasionally used in certain hepatitis C cases, especially if DAA therapy is not suitable or effective.

Liver transplant: In advanced cases of hepatitis C-related liver damage or liver failure, a liver transplant may be necessary to restore liver function.

The specific treatment approach for hepatitis B or hepatitis C will depend on the individual's condition, genotype or strain of the virus, overall health, and other factors. Consultation with a healthcare provider experienced in treating liver diseases is essential to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.