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Nov 11, 2020|Pharmacy

Treatment and Prevention Options for Hepatitis C and HIV

An estimated 2.4 million Americans have Chronic Hepatitis C and an estimated 1.2 million Americans have HIV.[1][2] These chronic conditions are caused by different viruses. You might wonder, “Are Hepatitis C and HIV the same?” Read on to learn about Hepatitis C and HIV prevention and treatment options that could help you live a long, healthy life.

Hepatitis C Treatment

Hepatitis C is a virus transmitted through the blood that ultimately affects the liver. Some people get an acute illness shortly after infection. However, it’s common to experience a few or no initial symptoms. After many years of being infected with Hepatitis C, people may develop ascites and tumors of the liver. You may wonder how to treat Chronic Hepatitis C. There are several medications that must be taken daily by mouth for 8 to 12 weeks that can cure most Hepatitis C infections.

HIV Treatment

HIV is treated with daily medications. This antiretroviral therapy is usually taken as a combination of two or more medications.[3] These medications help slow the replication of HIV. The medications must be consistently taken every day for the rest of your life. Sometimes, the medication must be changed if your HIV infection becomes resistant.

Hepatitis C and HIV Prevention

Public health professionals suggest several ways to protect yourself from HIV and Hepatitis C infection. These include not sharing needles or personal hygiene items with others. Wearing a condom also reduces your risk of infection. Pregnant women infected with HIV can take medication to prevent passing the virus to their babies.

Hepatitis C and HIV infections are preventable. If you notice early symptoms of Hepatitis C or HIV, it’s important to get tested and start treatment as soon as possible. To learn more about Hepatitis C and HIV treatment and prevention, contact Brevard Health Alliance today.

References:

[1] https://www.cdc.gov/hepatitis/hcv/hcvfaq.htm#section1

[2] https://www.hiv.gov/hiv-basics/overview/data-and-trends/statistics

[3] https://www.cdc.gov/hiv/basics/livingwithhiv/treatment.html

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