Hepatitis C

Understanding Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C is a viral infection that causes inflammation in the liver. Getting a diagnosis can feel overwhelming—but there’s good news: with today’s treatments, more than 95% of people with hepatitis C can be cured.

What Is Hepatitis C?

Hepatitis C is caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV), which spreads through contact with infected blood. It can be classified as either acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term), depending on how the body responds after infection.

Many people don’t notice symptoms right away, which is why the condition can go unnoticed for years. If left untreated, hepatitis C can lead to liver damage, including cirrhosis or even liver cancer.

Common symptoms may include:

  • Fatigue

  • Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)

  • Dark-colored urine

  • Abdominal pain

  • Poor appetite or unexplained weight loss

How Is Hepatitis C Treated?

The standard treatment for hepatitis C involves a course of direct-acting antiviral medications, typically lasting 8 to 24 weeks. These medications work by stopping the virus from multiplying in your body.

Treatment plans are customized based on:

  • The type (genotype) of hepatitis C virus

  • Whether liver damage is present

  • Past treatment history or coexisting health conditions

These therapies not only clear the virus but also help reduce liver inflammation and prevent long-term complications.

What About Side Effects?

Today’s medications for hepatitis C are generally well tolerated, with fewer side effects than older treatments. Some people may experience mild fatigue, nausea, or headaches—but your care team will guide you through every step of the process and help manage any side effects that arise.

With the right treatment and support, hepatitis C is not only manageable—it’s curable. A specialty pharmacy can play a key role by helping coordinate your medications, answering questions, and ensuring timely refills so you stay on track.

✅ Your Hepatitis C Treatment Checklist

Before Starting Treatment:

  • [ ] Talk with your doctor about treatment goals and options

  • [ ] Get tested to determine your HCV genotype

  • [ ] Discuss your liver health and past treatments

  • [ ] Make a list of all medications and supplements you're taking

  • [ ] Ask questions about side effects and what to expect

During Treatment (8–24 weeks):

  • [ ] Take antiviral medication exactly as prescribed

  • [ ] Set daily reminders so you don’t miss doses

  • [ ] Stay hydrated and eat balanced meals

  • [ ] Track any symptoms or changes and report them to your care team

  • [ ] Schedule lab tests and check-ins

After Treatment:

  • [ ] Complete all labs to confirm the virus is gone

  • [ ] Keep liver checkups, even if cured—especially if liver damage was present

  • [ ] Avoid sharing items that could have blood on them (razors, toothbrushes)

  • [ ] Talk with your provider about vaccines and protecting your liver going forward

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