Concerns About Hepatitis B Treatment and Medication Side Effects - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

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Regarding medication for hepatitis B?


Hello, doctor.
In February, my blood test showed ALT/SGPT at 112 and fetal protein at 10.8.
The clinic doctor recommended a three-month treatment with daily doses of Liver An Yi and an injection of Liphagen 20 ml every three days.
In May, my blood test results showed GPT at 26 and fetal protein at 1.76.
The clinic doctor said that the treatment could be concluded.
I would like to know if stopping the medication will lead to a relapse.
What are the side effects of these two medications? When I asked the clinic doctor, he said there were no issues.
Should I consider getting a second opinion and have further tests done elsewhere, as I am not satisfied with the doctor's demeanor? Thank you.

Jianhao, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/06/12

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology


Hello, you will need to have blood tests every month for monitoring.
If necessary, long-term oral antiviral medication treatment will be required.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Chen Shidian

Reply Date: 2018/06/12

More Info


When it comes to the treatment of Hepatitis B, it is essential to understand the medications available, their potential side effects, and the importance of ongoing monitoring. Based on your inquiry, it seems you have been undergoing treatment with Hepatitis B medications, specifically "肝安怡" (likely referring to Entecavir) and "Liphagen" (possibly referring to Interferon).

Treatment Overview
1. Medications: Entecavir is an antiviral medication that is commonly used to treat chronic Hepatitis B. It works by inhibiting the replication of the virus, thereby reducing the viral load in the body. Interferon, on the other hand, is an immune modulator that helps the body fight the virus. Both medications can be effective, but they work in different ways.

2. Treatment Duration: The duration of treatment can vary based on individual circumstances. In your case, it seems you were treated for three months, and your recent blood tests showed improvement in liver function (GPT 26 and AFP 1.76). This is a positive sign, but it does not guarantee that the virus is completely eradicated.


Concerns About Stopping Treatment
Stopping antiviral treatment can lead to a resurgence of the virus, especially if the virus was not fully suppressed during the treatment period. It is crucial to have a follow-up plan in place after completing a course of treatment. Your doctor should ideally monitor your liver function and viral load regularly to ensure that the virus does not rebound.


Side Effects of Medications
1. Entecavir (肝安怡): This medication is generally well-tolerated, but some potential side effects include:
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Rarely, it can lead to lactic acidosis, a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.

2. Interferon (Liphagen): Interferon can have more pronounced side effects, including:
- Flu-like symptoms (fever, chills, muscle aches)
- Fatigue
- Depression or mood changes
- Gastrointestinal issues (nausea, diarrhea)
- Changes in blood counts (such as low white blood cells or platelets)

Seeking Further Evaluation
Given your concerns about the quality of care you received and the potential for a resurgence of the virus, it may be beneficial to seek a second opinion from another healthcare provider, preferably a specialist in liver diseases or infectious diseases. They can provide a more comprehensive evaluation of your condition and recommend further testing if necessary.


Importance of Monitoring
Regular monitoring is crucial in managing Hepatitis B. This typically includes:
- Periodic blood tests to check liver function (ALT/AST levels)
- Testing for Hepatitis B viral load (HBV DNA)
- Monitoring for any signs of liver damage or complications

Conclusion
In summary, while your recent blood tests indicate improvement, it is essential to remain vigilant after stopping treatment. The risk of viral rebound exists, and ongoing monitoring is necessary to ensure your liver health remains stable. If you feel uncertain about your current treatment plan or the quality of care you are receiving, do not hesitate to seek a second opinion. Your health is paramount, and you deserve to have confidence in your treatment and care team.

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