Advantages of using HCV treatment

DAA treatment is now so effective and easy that the only problem in some cases is access to these drugs.

You can be cured of HCV. This can reduce the risk of liver-related and HIV-related illness and death.

Being cured can improve liver health by reducing inflammation.

Effective treatment may reverse fibrosis.

You will no longer be infectious to sexual and drug-using partners.

Clearing the virus removes the risk of mother to infant transmission.

Treating HCV before HIV treatment reduces the risk of liver-related side effects from HIV drugs later.

Treatment is usually three months or less, not lifelong.

If treatment is not working you can find out after 4 -12 weeks.

Treatment tips

Find people in your life who will be a good source of support.

Be prepared before seeing your doctor; make a list of questions in advance.

Take someone with you to appointments. This is important if you want to discuss psychological side effects.

Consider joining a support group.

After diagnosis, I was determined to have the treatment immediately… my concern turned to my partner and I resolved to get rid of the HCV as quickly as possible.

Last updated: 17 August 2017.