Lapse in Ribavirin

just finishing my first month of TX , tolerating it well. My Dr. or lab screwed up and I didn't get
viral load in lab tests w/ other tests. Although WBC count is low , Dr. says w/ no viral load results
he can't release my meds. This is going to cause a three day minimum lapse with no meds.
Is this normal?

[GoofyDad]

No - not at all. And that's not the way he should handle it no matter whose lapse it was. You should continue on the meds without interuption. This sound like an insurance issue. Riba is expensive to be sure, but perhaps you could pay for a few days out of pocket if he'll write the script.

[jmjm530]

Not normal and he's potentially ruining if that is what's happening. As Goofy suggests, if you can get an rx -- or have an existing rx -- pay out of pocket for now, if that is the issue. If you find any resistance, you might also put in a call to your Primary physician right away and maybe they can help. I'd also ask for a referral to another liver doctor -- preferably a liver specialist (hepatologist). Not to mince words, missing three or more consecutive days of ribavirin at this early point in treatment could seriously jepordize your chance of SVR. And missing one or two peg shots at this point, would put it in very serious jepordy.

-- Jim

[FloridaMouse]

Nope., not normal at all.  The only way meds should be withheld is if your counts are dangerously low.  He's messing with your treatment protocol over nothing.  I agree with Jim, it's dangerous messing with treatment in the beginning... the first 12 weeks are critical.  It's time for another doc.

Mouse

[Lonestar823]

I can overnight riba if necessary.  This is ridiculous.

[nygirl7]

OH my God find a new doctor fast - one who actually knows something about HepC.  Please.  Right now pick up the phone and find somebody who will see you immediately - explain how crucial it is and what is going on. At this point any GI would be better than this guy!

I know that sounds harsh but he is totally messing with your course of treatment and if he's doing this God knows what else he might do in the future!

[Startek2]

yaknow i could send a few pills your way too if that would help.....

[Teres]

You might also want to check with your insurance provider to find out where the problem lies. If it's he doctor, then definitely get another doctor.... one that does not have his proverbial head up his proverbial (well, you know). Check the pharmacy where you get your meds. They might help you out despite what Dr. Shithead says. Scream, yell, stamp your feet. It's your life, your treatment, your recovery. Time wasted in treatment (especially early on) would set you back that much more. The money and energies you spend now will affect how much you'll need to spend later. Best of luck.