Hep C treatment advice

[jan801]

I am 58 years old (female) and  I weigh 203 lbs. I was recently diagnosed with hep c. I also have high cholesterol and a fatty liver.  My glucose is 116 and A1C is 7. My liver biopsy is stage 2, grade 2, no cirrohsis.

My gasto doctor told me that I have a 40% chance of cure on standard treatment because of my other health problems. He suggested Metformin and lipitor as treatment for my fatty liver and then I could go on the interferon and copegus treatment. I am very confused at this point. I am afraid to start these drugs. Can I take this medication with the hep C treatment. I want to cure the hep C. What should I do?

[justme53]

Hi Jan,

Sounds like your Dr. is pretty on the ball. From what I've read and learned here, you'll have a better chance with treatment if you get your blood sugar and cholesterol issues taken care of beforehand.

Good luck to you......Pam

[fretboard]

Being afraid usually only last until you've got the first shot done and out of the way.  Your doctor has a plan for you before you start tx, most likely to increase your chances and to help you health wise.  My guess is you would have to take the Metformin and Lipitor with or without the tx.  My point is for you to start on the prescriptions and do whatever else he says and educate yourself about the HepC tx so you will know what you are up against.  There is alot to learn about HepC and you chose the right forum, now you need to read around and educate yourself.  Truly you will not know how easy or difficult the tx will be until you start.  Your main focus now should be to get your health at it's optimum level.  Then you can make up your mind about the how and when of txing your HepC.  good luck

[portann]

I see you this is your first post since joining the forum this month. Welcome.

Your situation is a complex one and really the stuff of a final examination paper.

I'm sure that shortly Jim and others will contribute substantially.

In the meantime, I wish you well but must race away right now.

[FlGuy]

The doc probably feels that getting you diabetes (metformin) and cholesterol (lipitor) is a more immediate need that the hcv.  Many people take both while on treatment, I was metformin during successful treatment.  He'll probably also suggest that you lose some weight before treatment.  His guess at 40% likely implies that you have geno type 1.