Questions for the Doctor: Managing Liver Health and Medication Concerns

Q: Questions for the Doctor: Managing Liver Health and Medication Concerns

Hello： 1. <br>Generally, the side effects of Belarck are rare, and clinically, very few people experience drowsiness after taking it. <br>This method of medication should be avoided as it can lead to drug resistance or the occurrence of fulminant hepatitis. <br>2. <br>Gastrointes

I have some questions to ask the doctor?

Doctor: Hello.
I have some questions I would like to ask you: 1.
I was hospitalized for acute hepatitis two months ago, which started my use of Belec.
By the end of October, my liver function tests returned to normal; however, due to practical reasons, I find that this medication makes me very sleepy and slows my reactions, to the point where I struggle with simple comparisons of numbers.
I need to work, so since the end of October, I have been taking the medication only on weekends and not during the weekdays.
Is this on-and-off approach acceptable? What effects might it have? 2.
Recently, for the past month, I have been experiencing a feeling of heaviness and bloating in the upper right abdomen, and sometimes it even hurts.
This discomfort seems to be getting stronger.
By the way, this occurs regardless of whether I have eaten or not.
3.
My recent blood test showed an alpha-fetoprotein level of 20.
What does this mean? I apologize, Doctor, for having so many questions.
Thank you for your answers.

Miao Miao Ai Miao Miao, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/11/24

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: 1.
Generally, the side effects of Belarck are rare, and clinically, very few people experience drowsiness after taking it.
This method of medication should be avoided as it can lead to drug resistance or the occurrence of fulminant hepatitis.
2.
Gastrointestinal or hepatobiliary discomfort is also possible; it is recommended to consult a clinician for a thorough examination.
3.
Fetal protein levels may rise if there is no tumor in the liver but inflammation is present.
I would like to emphasize again, do not intermittently stop the medication to avoid serious consequences.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-shun.

Reply Date: 2018/11/24

More Info

Hello! Thank you for your questions regarding liver health and medication concerns. Let's address each of your inquiries in detail.

1. Intermittent Medication Use: You mentioned that you were hospitalized for acute hepatitis two months ago and started taking a medication called "贝乐克" (likely referring to a medication for hepatitis). It’s important to understand that medications for liver conditions, especially antiviral treatments, are typically prescribed to be taken consistently to maintain effective drug levels in your system. Taking the medication intermittently (only on weekends) can lead to suboptimal treatment outcomes. This inconsistency may allow the virus to replicate, potentially leading to resistance against the medication. It’s crucial to consult your healthcare provider about your concerns regarding side effects like drowsiness and cognitive slowing. They might adjust your dosage or switch you to a different medication that has a more favorable side effect profile for your work and daily activities.

2. Abdominal Discomfort: The right upper quadrant discomfort you are experiencing could be related to several factors, including liver inflammation, gallbladder issues, or even musculoskeletal problems. Given your history of acute hepatitis, it’s essential to have this evaluated by your healthcare provider. They may recommend imaging studies, such as an ultrasound, to assess the liver and gallbladder for any abnormalities. Additionally, if the discomfort is increasing in intensity, it’s vital to seek medical attention promptly to rule out any serious complications.

3. Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) Levels: An AFP level of 20 ng/mL is generally considered within the normal range, but the interpretation can vary based on your clinical context. AFP is a protein that can be elevated in liver diseases, particularly in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and chronic liver diseases. While a level of 20 is not alarming, it’s essential to monitor it over time, especially given your history of liver issues. Your healthcare provider may recommend regular monitoring of AFP levels along with imaging studies to ensure that there are no underlying concerns.

In summary, it’s crucial to maintain consistent medication adherence unless directed otherwise by your healthcare provider. Any new or worsening symptoms, such as abdominal discomfort, should be evaluated promptly. Lastly, keep an eye on your AFP levels and discuss their significance with your doctor, as they can provide personalized insights based on your overall health and liver function.

If you have further questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider. They are your best resource for managing your liver health and addressing any medication-related issues. Thank you for your questions, and I wish you the best in your health journey!

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