HepC

[Vadzius]

I have non active hepC virus.is it possible to get rebavirin and exveria course in the GP clinic?and is it for free with NHS?

[tillycindy]

Hello there vadzius, it,s not possible to receive Hep C treatment from your G.P. If you go to your surgery your Doctor can refer you to the local hospital for treatment. You,ll have a blood test to check your liver functions, and then possibly an ultra scan and fibroscan at the hospital to check if the hep has caused any damage. Depending on these results and life style issues it will then be determined how quickly you get treated. At the moment the sicker your liver, the faster they treat, although eventually everyone will be treated if they are Hep positive. The new generation of drugs are very effective and the course is usually 12 wks but can be longer depending on your geno type or strain of Hep you have. (determined during blood tests). treatment is approx. £60,000, and is available for free on the N.H.S. If you use drugs or drink you will have to have stopped for 6 months prior to being treated as the drugs do not mix with either of them. If you have Hep C you really ought not to drink anyway as alcohol is more poison to your liver. The Hep slowly nibbles away at our livers over the years, so killing the virus, and stopping any drug/drink is important for preventing any more damage if indeed you have any at the present time. If your virus is non active they may decide to take a watch and wait policy you will have to speak with your doctor. Sorry, I had only just noticed you said non active, and I have gone on a bit, too tired to change it now, (lazy !). Yes treatment is free but not treated at the doctors and as your status is non active they may just wait and keep an eye on you. (don,t know much about this non active issue..the body can clear itself in some early infection cases? ). Best wishes to you, let us know. Regards anne.

[Vadzius in reply to tillycindy]

Thank you for very importent information...