Treatment Options for Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C is the most serious of six hepatitis viruses, all of which attack the liver and prevent the organ from functioning normally. People who have hepatitis C are often unaware of it because they experience no symptoms.

No Treatment

• Treatment may not be necessary if the hepatitis C virus hasn't infected the bloodstream, a biopsy shows no liver damage, or the amount of the liver enzyme alanine aminotransferase isn't elevated in the bloodstream.

Drug Therapy

• A regimen incorporating weekly shots of pegylated interferon alfa and ribavirin taken orally twice a day may help remove hepatitis C from the bloodstream. The therapy typically lasts from six to 12 months and can be repeated if the virus remains.

Immunization

• Hepatitis A and B can make treating hepatitis C more difficult. Consequently, immunization against the first two viruses is frequently part of the treatment for hepatitis C.

Lifestyle

• Lifestyle changes that may help decrease the impact of hepatitis C include avoiding alcohol and drugs that damage the liver, eating a nutritious diet, exercising, getting adequate sleep and minimizing others' exposure to your blood.

Liver Transplant

• End-stage liver disease is a major complication of hepatitis C infection. When it occurs, a liver transplant is usually the recommended treatment.