Hello.
Interferon and Ribavirin have been around a long time. There are now many trials on other drugs, combination tx therapy's that are very promising. They are discussed here often, by some very knowledgeable people that keep up on those studies, trials and provide links for you.
When first diagnosed, I read for weeks, mostly here. If you read past threads, you'll learn a lot. Also look at the abbreviations list here, to help your understand it. Some of it may scare you, but keep in mind this tx is different for everyone. No way to tell in advance how it will affect you.
And yes, many of us achieve SVR with treatment.
Good luck, LL
Yes, people can and do successfully complete antiviral therapy with the current standard of care which is interferon and ribavirin. The odds of reaching a sustained virological response or cure depends on genotype, degree of liver damage, age, how long you've had the virus just to name a few.
Here is a good website containing good basic information regarding hepc and treatment:
http://www.janis7hepc.com/
Each person has different side effects...Mild,Moderate,Severe,just depends. Most people do overcome their side effects and complete treatment. They include flu like symptoms, fatigue,depression,anxiety,rashes etc.
this combo is not new, it is probably better to google for some general info and then come back with some specific questions