### Hepatitis C Treatment and Its Side Effects Hepatitis C can be treated and even cured, which is crucial to prevent permanent liver damage. The treatment for hepatitis C has evolved over the years. Initially, it involved interferon and ribavirin, which had many side effects like fatigue, fever, chills, and depression. Nowadays, treatment usually involves direct-acting antiviral drugs (DAAs), which are more effective and have fewer side effects. #### Common Treatments and Their Side Effects - **Elbasvir-grazoprevir (Zepatier)**: This once-a-day tablet can cure hepatitis C in 12 to 16 weeks. Side effects may include joint pain, anemia, and depression, especially if taken with ribavirin. - **Glecaprevir and pibrentasvir (Mavyret)**: Taken as three tablets daily for 8 weeks, it is effective for those without cirrhosis and who haven't been treated before. Side effects may include severe liver damage if you have had hepatitis B. - **Ledipasvir-sofosbuvir (Harvoni)**: A daily tablet taken for 8 to 24 weeks, it can cure hepatitis C. Common side effects include weakness and cough, especially when combined with ribavirin. - **Ombitasvir-paritaprevir-ritonavir (Technivie)**: Taken daily with food, possibly with ribavirin. It can make birth control less effective. - **Peginterferon (Pegasys)**: Administered as a weekly shot, it can cause side effects like miscarriages, especially if pregnant or breastfeeding. - **Ribavirin**: Available as a tablet, capsule, or liquid, taken twice daily with food for 24 to 48 weeks. Side effects include anemia and depression. - **Sofosbuvir-velpatasvir (Epclusa)**: A daily pill taken for 12 weeks, it can cause diarrhea, upset stomach, and trouble sleeping if combined with ribavirin. - **Sofosbuvir (Sovaldi)**: Taken daily with food, it can cause severe side effects if combined with other medications. - **Sofosbuvir-velpatasvir-voxilaprevir (Vosevi)**: Taken daily for 12 weeks, it is suitable for those with cirrhosis and previous treatments. Side effects include headaches and fatigue. #### Managing Side Effects While on treatment, your doctor will monitor your health and side effects closely. Blood tests will measure your viral load to ensure the treatment is working. It's important to avoid putting additional strain on your liver during treatment. Remember, most side effects will go away once the treatment is complete. Work with your doctor to manage any issues and stay committed to your treatment plan.