Aa
Aa
A
A
A
Close
Avatar universal

Can I drink a beer?

I just finished a 24 week treatment for Hep c,- interferon, ribiviron, amantadine, folic acid.  I have type 2 and the virus has been cleared and I feel great! -as of now.  Normal liver function, etc.  For the last year I have stayed away from drinking anything.  So is it ok to have a beer?  My doctor has really hedged when I ask him.  Any thoughts?
105 Responses
Sort by: Helpful Oldest Newest
Avatar universal
If the subject of alcohol's positive effect on the heart is new to you, check out a number of Mike Simon[s recent posts on the subject. It should be in another one of these alkie threads nearby.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
If the subject of alcohol's positive effect on the heart is new to you, check out a number of Mike Simon[s recent posts on the subject. It should be in another one of these alkie threads nearby.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Take a chill pill.

Yes, AFTER SVR my liver specialist suggested I have 1-2 drinks with dinner to enhance my cardiac profile, especially my low HDL.

Currently, my liver is in good shape based on blood tests, scans, and both a mid-treatment and post-treatment Fibroscan -- so  given my cardiac profile -- high LDL, low HDL, Hi Tri's -- plus my families not so terrific cardiac history (heart attack city) -- my main health issue is my heart, not liver.

I know you think your Canadian doc is over the moon, but my doc is right up there -- a major U.S. liverhead who runs many trials. Another equally eminent liver specialist I consulted with said he also has no problem with me drinking in moderation -- although I asked the question, so I can't say he "recommended" it. But the first one did. In fact, what the second doc said was that I shouldn't treat my liver any differently than if I never had Hep C. That doesn't mean to abuse it, because he stated he didn't think anyone should abuse their liver, with alcohol or anything else. But a drink here or there is not abusing it.

I think "RGlass" summed it up very well in his post above where he states the alcohol issue tends to get oversimplified here.

-- Jim
Helpful - 0
250084 tn?1303307435
Are 'chill pill's' okay with hep and tx ???
In a kind, tho it's a thought way...........
                                                                  LL
Helpful - 0
250084 tn?1303307435
Opps.... sorry SIR!  Only been on here a few mths. and still following who's who! With some names your not always sure :}
Guess that means you get a ' 3 pack' instead of a 2 pack:)
                                                                    LL
Helpful - 0
229003 tn?1193701924
wait a minute - back that bus up Jim - are you saying a Liver Specialist has reccomended you drink?????
Helpful - 0
Have an Answer?

You are reading content posted in the Hepatitis C Community

Top Hepatitis Answerers
317787 tn?1473358451
DC
683231 tn?1467323017
Auburn, WA
Learn About Top Answerers
Didn't find the answer you were looking for?
Ask a question
Answer a few simple questions about your Hep C treatment journey.

Those who qualify may receive up to $100 for their time.
Explore More In Our Hep C Learning Center
image description
Learn about this treatable virus.
image description
Getting tested for this viral infection.
image description
3 key steps to getting on treatment.
image description
4 steps to getting on therapy.
image description
What you need to know about Hep C drugs.
image description
How the drugs might affect you.
image description
These tips may up your chances of a cure.
Popular Resources
A list of national and international resources and hotlines to help connect you to needed health and medical services.
Herpes sores blister, then burst, scab and heal.
Herpes spreads by oral, vaginal and anal sex.
STIs are the most common cause of genital sores.
Condoms are the most effective way to prevent HIV and STDs.
PrEP is used by people with high risk to prevent HIV infection.