Arava and elevated GGT

[Joanne Mary]

For eleven weeks, I have been taking Arava for rheumatoid arthritis.  This has relieved the pain almost 100%.  However, for 6 weeks I have had elevated GGT (136) and elevated alkaline phosphatase (198).  AST, ALT and LDH are normal.  I also have been taking atenolol for about six months. Can these medication cause the high readings?  I have no symptoms of anything wrong with the gall bladder.

[MajNeni]

Dear Friend,
this is a patient to patient support group for people concerned with Hepatitis C.  Your question neds to be directed to a doctor.  You can also do a web search for some of the key words in your question.  Good luck.  Maj Neni

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There are a lot of you out there who are coming close to the end of treatment.  How about a round of checking in?  Who's finishing in October?  November?  December?  We'd like to cheer from the side-lines here!  
Maj Neni

[Soleus]

Just took my 58th shot out of 60 tonight. This is my first and hopefully my only round of treatment. I decided to go longer because my viral load was a little high. However I’ve been Heptimax undetectable since my first PCR at week 12 so I think my chances are good. Trying to stay positive.

The closer I get to the end the harder it is to take this stuff. Unlike the first month though I know these sides are mostly psychological. Going to have to wean myself of xanax but I’m fortunate that was the only support drug I needed. Looking forward to the rest of life.

Good luck and God Bless.

[cuteus]

week 68 on Monday, of about 72 or so.   so November ending date, I guess.

[Honey15637]

Scott,,,I could have sworn that you were planning on getting your PCR Oct 3 or 4 and if so,,,,have you heard anything?

[Honey15637]

Nov 15th...Great Day,,,My sisters b-day so will remember that and be sending positive thoughts!  Yep,,,I think you got it at 88 weeks and just need the confirmation!  We are both doing good and excited about finishing up this winter! I can tell,,,Life is going to be so good,,,I can't wait to really enjoy after being on slack mode this past year.  Thanks for asking!

[mother of three]

Hi, haven't been on in along time. I have been clear since 12 wks, I decided to 52 , I do shot 52 wensday! I can't believe it's over. My GI, only did one pcr at 12 and I'll do another in about 3 wks. It hasn't been easy for me, platelets stayed around 50, whites and reds very low; did nupegen and procrit every wk. Blood work every wk. I have had alot of pain in my legs and back,   But I have made it.. with alot of prayer and love.  Jill

[MajNeni]

Dear Jill,
Congratulations on staying the course.  Good luck on your test.

I'm sure there are a lot of quiet people out there, perhaps  reading here but not posting.  We wish all of you success with the tx.
Maj Neni