Thank you all for your input and responses. I agree - as a sun lover, staying out of it is a small price to pay. I've seen other meds that say possible sun sensitivity and never had a problem before this so I took the warning lightly and ended up regretting it and hope that others will learn from my experience. I'm sure Michigan sun is different that the Florida sun that I was in when I experienced the sensitivity, but I'm not taking any chances. I am wondering how long it will take for the meds to get out of my system when treatment is done but it's all so new still that it will most likely just be a wait and see time. Once again, thank you!
I am on Pegasus, Ribavirin, and Sovaldi, and haven't been able to be in the sun at all. I bought some sun sleeves (like runners and bike riders use) from amazon, and those help me be able to go outside and drive, along with a good hat. You just need to avoid the sun, you don't want to get a rash going. It is a small price to pay while on Tx.
Reactions to the sun seem to be pretty common when it comes to Hepatitis C treatment. I'm a real sun lover and find that the treatment really effected the time I could stay in the sun. Everyone should be careful with sun exposure.
Best to you
Thank you so very much for your response and advice. I called my treatment nurse this morning and gave her all of the information you suggested I share. Thanks again for your input!
Cheers for letting us know about your photosensitivity reaction. I'm sure you have or will inform your your treatment doctor by tomorrow and ask for advice. It's a good idea for anyone starting or on this treatment to ask their provider for advice about taking precautions to avoid photosensitivity reactions. Also to have a clear understanding of what to do it that happens including symptoms that require an immediate 911 to ER visit or a timely follow up with the doctor or clinic the next day. ..
My opinion
Photosensitivity reactions are usually associated with Olysio PEG/RBV. The Phase 2 results for Olysio Sovaldi combinations show high SVR and lower side effects.but the number of trial patients was low. Phase 3 studies are now starting. There is limited experience with this treatment. It may be a good idea to take extra precautions. .
With more patients taking this treatment Off-label and the start of Phase 3 trials more side effects including Photosensitivity reactions may become more known as reports come in and are analyzed.