Should My Mom Stop Taking Liver Supplements After Two Years?

Q: Should My Mom Stop Taking Liver Supplements After Two Years?

Hello Mr. Ken： 1. DNA testing can generally be performed every 3 to 6 months, but it must be paid out of pocket. 2. If two consecutive years of treatment are completed (and if DNA cannot be detected after 6 months), the general principle is to discontinue

Is it necessary to stop taking liver supplements if used for an extended period?

Hello Dr.
Chen, thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule to help those of us in need.
I would like to ask for your advice regarding my mother, who is 58 years old.
She has been taking liver health supplements for two years, and since last year, her GOP, GPT, and alpha-fetoprotein levels have all been within normal ranges.
However, my mother's concerns are:
1.
Why have there been no further tests for viral load? How often should viral load testing be conducted?
2.
She has been continuously taking liver health supplements for two years.
Should we consider stopping the medication or switching to another one? If switching is necessary, which medication would be advisable? If we do not stop the medication, is there a risk of developing drug resistance or any side effects?
Thank you, Dr.
Chen, for your time and responses.

Mr.
Lin

Mr. Ken, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/04/14

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello Mr.
Ken:
1.
DNA testing can generally be performed every 3 to 6 months, but it must be paid out of pocket.

2.
If two consecutive years of treatment are completed (and if DNA cannot be detected after 6 months), the general principle is to discontinue medication and observe (with the exception of patients with cirrhosis), while carefully monitoring.
Some professors suggest continuing treatment for over 3 years before stopping to reduce the risk of recurrence.

3.
If there is still a high viral load, there is a possibility of developing drug resistance, in which case adding Hepatitis B immunoglobulin may be considered.

Changhua Hospital cares about your health.

Chen Shidian

Reply Date: 2007/04/14

More Info

When considering whether your mother should stop taking liver supplements after two years, it's important to evaluate her overall health status and the specific context of her liver condition. Given that her liver function tests (GOP, GPT, and alpha-fetoprotein levels) have been normal for the past year, this is a positive indicator. However, there are several factors to consider before making a decision about discontinuing the supplements.

1. Monitoring Viral Load: You mentioned that there have been no recent tests for viral load. In patients with chronic hepatitis B or C, monitoring the viral load is crucial. Generally, it is recommended to check the viral load every 3 to 6 months, especially if the patient is on antiviral therapy. If your mother has been stable and her viral load has been undetectable for over six months, it may be reasonable to discuss with her physician the possibility of reducing the frequency of these tests. However, this should be done under the guidance of her healthcare provider.

2. Duration of Supplement Use: The decision to continue or discontinue liver supplements after two years should be based on a comprehensive assessment of her liver health. If she has been stable and her liver function tests remain normal, some physicians may suggest that it is safe to stop the supplements. However, there are differing opinions on this matter. Some experts recommend continuing treatment for at least three years to minimize the risk of relapse, especially in patients with a history of significant liver disease.
3. Potential for Drug Resistance: If your mother has been on antiviral therapy for hepatitis, there is a risk of developing drug resistance if the treatment is not managed properly. If she has a high viral load or if there are concerns about her liver function, it may be necessary to continue treatment or consider switching to a different medication. The choice of medication would depend on her specific condition, including the type of hepatitis virus she has and her overall health.

4. Consultation with Healthcare Provider: It is essential for your mother to have an open discussion with her healthcare provider about her treatment plan. They can provide personalized advice based on her medical history, current health status, and the results of any recent tests. If there are concerns about the long-term use of liver supplements, her doctor may suggest alternative treatments or lifestyle changes that could support her liver health.

5. Lifestyle Considerations: In addition to medication, lifestyle factors play a significant role in liver health. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding alcohol and hepatotoxic substances are crucial. Your mother should also stay hydrated and maintain a healthy weight, as obesity can exacerbate liver conditions.

In summary, while your mother may be a candidate for stopping liver supplements given her stable liver function, this decision should be made in consultation with her healthcare provider. Regular monitoring of her liver health and viral load is essential to ensure that any changes in her treatment plan are safe and effective.

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