genotype 4

Question

I was diagnosed with chronic HepC grade 2-3 with stage 3-4 fibrosis (genotype 4) in 2004. My doctor explained that treatment would require a caretaker and that the cost would be more than I could afford so I opted not to take the treatments at that time. I haven't been back to a GI doctor in 6 years and am going next month so I was wondering if there are new treatments available and how successful they are.

lynstreet · Answer

Thanks so much for the feedback! Sounds like there are a lot more options now than 10 years ago. You folks are really making me believe there IS hope.

Livelife777 · Answer

Hi there. You need to be treated ASAP.   The new drugs are now out, and treating is basically a walk in the park as compared to prior treatments.  You 1st need to find a great hepatologist in your area as you've already been diagnosed with fibrosis in 2004.  The easiest way to do that is thru word of mouth, or let your fingers do the walking on your keyboard.  I have early or mild cirrhosis, and a caregiver is not needed.  The typical side effects are fatigue, mild nausea, headache, but some have few to none of these.  In the event you have decompensated cirrhosis a caretaker would be most advised as HE related symptoms could arise.  
Take care and be well.   ...Kim

Healingangel · Answer

I just finished treatment with 12 weeks of Sovaldi and Olysio for Genotype 4.  I am still undetected and will go back for the all important SVR12 blood test in a few months. Other than some fatigue this is a great treatment option for our Genotype.  What city are you in?  Definitely get yourself a good doc and get treated!  Good luck.

hepc4Sandi · Answer

I am/was genotype 4, just finished Sovaldi/Ribavirin/Inteferon for 12 weeks at the beginning of May, and so far am UND. Sovaldi cure rate for genotype 4 is 96% I believe. I am waiting for my 12 and 24 week post EOT viral tests. So do find a good Hep Doc!

Boobert · Answer

All the new drugs are working great for the Genotype 4's. I was a Geno 4 and treated with BMS all oral drugs February 2013 and have been clear ever since. I was Undetected 9 days after starting.BMS, Abbvie, Gilead, Merck all have new oral drugs that are in the high 90% cure range.They should be available to all by the end of this year or early 2015. But do get a good Hep Doctor and he'll take care of you. I had pretty much no side effects also. Good Luck!!

can-do-man · Answer

Welcome to the forum. Not sure why your doctor thought you would need a caretaker as many of us have treated that lived alone. These new meds seem to be working with type 4. You need to find a good Hepatolgist that have treated your genotype in the past as it has been one of the hardest to cure.

Best to you.