Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a serious and potentially life-threatening global health issue. The virus is highly contagious and can lead to severe health problems such as liver damage, liver cancer, and even death in some cases. People of all ages, genders, and cultural backgrounds can be affected by HBV and if left untreated, can have permanent and disabling health impacts. Fortunately, advances in medical science have made it possible for HBV to be treated and possibly cured with medication.
Effect of these medications
The first step to treating HBV is to determine what strain of the virus an individual is infected with. Most HBV infections can be treated with drugs known as nucleosides or nucleotide analog reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs). These medications work by stopping the virus from replicating in the body so that their numbers decrease and people can mount their own immune response. Depending on the severity of the infection, treatment can last anywhere from 6 to 12 months. NRTIs can be taken along with other medications that help the body better fight the virus, such as interferon and pegylated interferon.
EFFECT FROM INTERFERON ALPHA
In some cases, HBV can be treated with interferon-alpha, which is a naturally-occurring protein produced by the body. This medication works by stimulating the patient’s immune system to fight the virus and reduces the amount of virus in the body. People taking interferon alpha for an extended period of time can expect to have a successful response rate of 70-90%.
The main goal of HBV Treatment
The main goal of HBV treatment is to reduce the amount of the virus in the body so that the patient becomes an “inactive carrier” meaning that the virus is present but is not causing any serious health issues. This stage of the treatment is known as the “functional cure” and is usually achieved after the patient has taken the full course of treatment prescribed by their doctor.
About lamivudine
Lamivudine is an antiviral medication used to treat infections caused by the hepatitis B virus. It is also used to prevent and treat HIV infections. While Lamivudine has been proven to be an effective drug, it can also come with a range of side effects, some mild and others more serious.
Effects from it
Some of the common side effects of taking Lamivudine tablets include headaches, dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain. These symptoms usually go away on their own with little treatment and without causing any long-term problems. Additionally, some users of Lamivudine may experience a decrease in their appetite and/or weight loss from taking this medication.
Other Lamivudine tablet side effects may include diarrhea, constipation, or abdominal cramps. If any of these symptoms worsen and become unmanageable, it is important to notify a healthcare provider right away. Lamivudine can also cause a decrease in energy or an achiness that can range from mild to severe.
Potential long term effects
While most people who take Lamivudine will not experience any long-term side effects, some people may develop more serious conditions such as depression, exhaustion, or anemia. For these people, it is important to seek medical attention right away if these conditions develop.
Psychological effects
In addition to the physical side effects, Lamivudine can also cause psychological side effects. This includes anxiety, depression, mood swings, or even thoughts of suicide in rare cases. If any of these symptoms occur, it is crucial to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Conclusion
It’s important to note that no one is completely cured of HBV and that it may still be present in their body for years after being declared an inactive carrier. There is no vaccine to prevent HBV once acquired and so it is important to take preventative measures such as practicing safe sex, not sharing needles, and getting tested regularly if there is a chance of exposure.
In conclusion, HBV can be treated and greatly minimized with medication, but it is important to adhere to the full course of treatment prescribed by a doctor. As the virus may still remain in an inactive state for years after treatment, it is important for people to take it with caution to prevent further infections or transmission of the virus.
FAQs
- What does HBV lead to?
It leads to liver damage, liver cancer, and even death
- What is the first step to treating HBV?
The first step is to determine what strain of the virus an individual is infected with.
- What are the side effects of this medicine?
The side effects include headaches, dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain.
