Interferon Treatment Questions

[axl2007]

I found out a couple months ago that my mom has Hepatitis C.  I was wanting to know around how much interferon treatment would cost, how long it takes, and if it cures Hepatitis, or just postpones the effects.  Also, is there any type of organization that helps with obtaining interferon?  We don't have very much money to spend on anything but absolute essentials.  Thanks for taking the time to read this.

[l-horn]

Be aware that when applying for Patient Assistance Programs that Roche uses a forumula that is 'asset' based and Scherings is 'income' based.

Good luck to you and your mother. She's very lucky to have you.

[Kalio1]

Glad to hear you had your consult. Im also glad to hear you are not having problems with symptoms. I hope the visit served to make you feel more confident about all of this. Can't wait to hear what went on.

[SandyBreeze]

axl2007 - I certainly hope the number provided above is helpful to your mother.  I hope you and your family find what is needed in assisting your mother through this.  I've been recently diagnosed and really feel quite well.  

Do you know the condition of your mother's liver?  Doubting you may not with what you've stated and depending where you reside,  and understanding some health care systems are bleak - please follow every resource presented here.

kalio1 - I had a very long consult with my hepatologist yesterday and will share it with everyone when I have an opportunity in the next day or so.  (It was quite Interesting!)  I hope you're feeling well.

breeze

[SandyBreeze]

Thank you so much for the quick reply!!!

Actually, I would very much like your input, and cannot wait to put everything down on 'paper'!  I got so absorbed, I forgot to take some notes near the end!! However, I've got far more to think about than I thought.   He discussed treatment a little.  I want to respond in the next thread briefly, then will be back at some point this weekend.... hopefully!!

[Kalio1]

Sorry to hear about your Mom's diagnosis. There are programs that can help by supplying the medications. She will need to have a local doctor overseeing her care and monitoring her bloodwork but the assistance programs cover the drug costs. You will still have costs above that for the doctor and tests.
One program is Scjerom Plough's Commitment to Care, they make PegIntron. You can call them at 1-800-521-7157.

There are two companies that make the Interferon, Schering Plough and the other one, Roche, makes Pegasys. The doctor will order one of those two drugs. They are basically the same drug made by two different companies.Some doctors prefer one, some the other.
They have a website Pegassist.com for infomation on their patient assistance program.