HEP B TREATMENTS

[LittleShrew]

Hi, I saw my doctor today. I have had HEP B for many years. My doctor was only monitoring it. Today he told me that he is very concerned about my ALT levels. He recommend to start antiviral medications now as he is concerned about the cancer risk. I asked him if I will be taking them for the rest of my life. He said that he thinks that a few years and then he hopes that better treatments will be available. Anyone has heard about this? I looked online some info about antivirals and it suggested risk of kidney and bone problems. My doctor said that I will have a blood test re kidney function every 3 months, but nothing about the bone health. Should I be asking for some bone suppliments?I am also worried about side effects. Would be great to hear how others are managing. Thank you in advance.

[Shloma]

I Think it's worth searching for more options at other clinics even out of the country. Their is sometimes options in other countries deferent options for several reasons one will & not the other. Then it's worth looking for alternative. Always search well to make sure they know what they are doing & safe to go there & deal with them. And very important that the treatment is safe. It's not easy but worth the while

[GarryS]

I have been taking Tenofovir and Lamivudine for a number of years now. No side effects. I have regular blood tests and ultrasounds and the occasional fibroscan.

[LittleShrew in reply to GarryS]

Thank you 🙏 it is very reassuring to hear that 😊🙏

[Tiger800xrt]

Tenofovir, which is the most commonly prescribed anti-viral can affect both kidney function and bone health. When initial prescribed, you should get 3 monthly blood tests to check. Also get your Dr. to check you Vitamin D level as this is related to bone health too. Many people take it for many years without any side effects.

[LittleShrew in reply to Tiger800xrt]

Thank you so much for taking time to replay 😊🙏 I needed a bit of reassurance. Thank you again. Feeling a bit better 🙏

[macscot5]

I would have thought you would have been on antivirals by now. You don't say what your viral load is or whether you are compensated or decompensated.

[LittleShrew in reply to macscot5]

I have no idea.... The doctor was very brief. He said that my liver function tests look fine, but ALT is going up