The expense

[KarenBee]

My husband was turned down for a trail because of his body mass. How much should we expect to pay for this out of pocket?  The nurse who called today from research said that he could try to lose some weight and get in another trial this summer.  At stage 3, does he really have time to lose a lot of weight?

TIA

[fretboard]

You can get assistance with the expense of the meds if you really need it.  The problem is if you're husband is alot overweight there will be a big problem clearing the HepC, which you've already heard.  Also I don't know if PegAssist has weight requirements.   good luck

No pharmaceutical insurance?  Need help getting tx?
Commitment to Care: 1-800-521-7157
PegAssist: 1-800-387-1258

[Proactive]

no problem..There are trials going on in Georgia, a couple for insulin resistance...Scroll down to Georgia. Good luck
http://www.centerwatch.com/clinical-trials/listings/studylist.aspx?CatID=670

[KarenBee]

Thank you. Your kindness is much appreciated.

[Proactive]

Here is a link for you, you can do some trial and info checking on the subject.
http://searchmedica.com/search.do?q=Hepatitis+C+overweight+patients&useraction=search&ss=defLink&fr=true&c=pc&oq=Hepatitis+C

[KarenBee]

We are in Georgia.  I will follow your link for further information.  Thank you.

[Proactive]

I didn't see your location listed in your profile..Are you near Pittsburgh?
http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT00871845

[KarenBee]

The real question is at stage 3 does he really have time NOT to lose a lot of weight. Hight BMI (body mass index) is associated with a lower chance of the treatment drugs working. That's why they don't want him in the trial because he will skew the numbers downward.

Better your husband loses the weight and treats a little later but is successful rather than treat now and fail. If you want to help your husband help him lose the weight.

-- Jim

Don't assume I haven't tried, Jim.

Thanks to Bill and newleaf.  Your answers to my question was much appreciated.

[jmjm530]

At stage 3, does he really have time to lose a lot of weight?
---------------------------
The real question is at stage 3 does he really have time NOT to lose a lot of weight. Hight BMI (body mass index) is associated with a lower chance of the treatment drugs working. That's why they don't want him in the trial because he will skew the numbers downward.

Better your husband loses the weight and treats a little later but is successful rather than treat now and fail. If you want to help your husband help him lose the weight.

-- Jim

[Bill1954]

I’ve talked to patients that have tracked expenses; it seems to cost in excess of $US 60,000/year, if all things are considered. Others will have different figures of course, dependent on procedures. Pricey stuff, eh?

Bill

[newleaf09]

If he can take good enough care of himself (keep stress off of his liver by being cautious with over-the-counter drugs, no alcohol) he may be able to wait a few months.  The treatment, if paid for privately, is terribly expensive; up to $30,000 for the 2 drugs for 11 months plus the expense of dr. visits and much much essential bloodwork to be sure the drugs aren't doing him any undue harm.  Maybe learning the cost will inspire him to get in shape for a trial.

The trials pay for everything except some of the rescue meds, if needed, and antidepressants, if needed.  Good luck.