72 weeks tx

[GlennZIM]

I am genotype 1B and am in stage 4 disease . Dr has now recommended 72 weeks of combo. I was a full responder in 2001 on mono therapy and cleared the virus after 16 weeks. I was then in stage 3  it was undetectable for 6 months after 48 week course of peg interferon. Liver functions remained in normal range for almost 7 years. Viral load came back within 6 months after treatment and has progressed to now  4,000,000. Has anyone been treated for 72 weeks? As I now have cirrhosis , yet doing well I would like to know if anyone is in  similar situation. I am 62

Thanks

[GrandmaBRZ]

I have just finished my first round of tx of 72 weeks.  I am really glad the opportunity was there to do it.  I am also 1B, compensated cirrhosis and am 69 years of age.  It wasn't fun but was doable.  Even though I wait for 6 months to find out if I am SVR, I am beginning to feel much better.  Best of Luck to YOU!!!!

Jen

[nygirl7]

Dear Glenn,

Sorry to hear that you have to treat again.  We all know how much fun it is.

I treated for 72 weeks and have been cured now for almost two years.  Back in the olden days - doctors did not know how important early PCRs were in order to determine our odds and then length of treatment. I did not clear until after week 12 but before week 24. I read the studies that had just been coming out and saw that 72 was the best chance for me as a stage 3 who had an active viral load at week 12 (my reason for going to 72).

This time around I would argue with your doc for the best portion of ribavirin possible knowing how crucial the riba is especially in the first 12 weeks.  I think with it you would have made it the first time easily.   As a stage 4 it's time to nip this thing now - 72 weeks seems like forever but it's really not, it's worth it to be rid of the disease once and for all.  With the 72 and the proper meds........you can do it.

We'll be rooting for you.

Best of luck Glenn.

[can-do-man]

Also stage 4 and tx for 86 weeks, relapsed 3 months post tx. Im just started a trial study with a P I. I would ask my doctor about doing either the telaprevir or boceprevir trial for relapsers. I think that would be your best shot. Also doing fine here. Best to you

cando