new guy who's experienced a few RediPen malfunctions

[awesome_possum]

Hello all,

after reading some inspiring svr stories I've decide to participate in the forum.

I'm a 1a, I went thru the tx in '90 for 6 months. It didn't take. Now I'm on the PegIntron/ribavirin tx. Week 8 out of 48.

Here's the question...I've had a pen failure and didn't bring a backup along, (was out of state, etc) so went a week w/o a shot. Other than adding a week to the tx, could this have banjaxed the tx on some level.

I'm paranoid by nature.

For all of you svr...you are my lifeline.

[Forseegood]

Just wanted to say, I had a big long, too long, post meant for you et al in Cuteus' thread (it's recent), in case you miss it. Be well.

[Forseegood]

Ha ha, we have totally agreed all along, we just had a few points that were hiding behind other ones...he he he. Be well and let us know what you decide to do about your treatment! I'll sign off too, i'm sure a few are sick of my mug for tonight!

[jmjm530]

What do you count posts so you can always hv the last word in a thread. LOL.

My point was slightly different. Of course, insulting new members with immature one-liners is wrong, and harassing another member by taking their name is really wrong -- I just think in the entire scheme of things here, a lot worse has gone on by long-standing members and here lies the real problem. Not to say Kalio2 shouldn't have been booted -- I agree he/she should have -- but Kalio 2 was an easy target to go after. Maybe that's what Coug meant, maybe not, but it's my take. Enough copy on this topic for me tonight.

-- Jim

[jmjm530]

I might add now before someone jumps in and says "well, that's the problem with the 4-week PCR" -- that the main purpose of the 4-week PCR is not to draw inferences from the amount of detectible virus but to draw inferences from a non-detectible result. In other word, if non-detectible and certain other requirements are met, a shortened treatment regimen becomes a more realistic alternative. As Kalio's doc said, a positive at week 4 doesn't mean you should jump to conclusions. That said, I'd probably (given MY stats) up the dosage if I didn't have close to two-logs at week 4, but that's just me.

-- Jim

[jmjm530]

I think it would depend on your age, genotype, level of fibrosis, how you're tolerating treatment and how well versed your treatment doctor is in individualizing treatment. Certainly something to discuss with your doctor and if you have the time and resources with a second consult.

All that said, viral load variances from week 4 to 12 is not all that well studied so your current regimen might work out, but if it were me, I'd be asking the same questions you are. All the best luck.


-- Jim

[ASmile4U]

Sorry to hi jack the thread...I'm in need of some opinions.  Now I know why the 4 week PCR can be either great or not so good news.  Still glad I insisted on it though.  VL went from 827,000 to 498,000...not quite half.  Very discouraging.  Nothing to worry about since I haven't reached 12 weeks yet...or should I ask the doctor to up the meds? ...any input would be appreciated.  Thanks  :)