Interferons for Chronic Hepatitis B
Why It Is Used
Interferons are used to treat long-term (chronic) HBV infection in adults and children who are at risk for liver disease. The American Association for the Study of Liver Disease has made Reference recommendations on who should receive treatment for hepatitis B based on the presence of hepatitis B Reference antigen Opens New Window in your blood, the level of Reference hepatitis B virus DNA (HBV DNA) in your blood, and the level of the liver enzyme alanine aminotransferase (ALT).Reference 1
Treatment with interferons is not recommended if you are using illegal drugs or drinking too much alcohol. It is also not recommended if you have had an organ transplant or if you have advanced liver scarring (Reference cirrhosis Opens New Window).
Interferons can cause or aggravate mental problems. Tell your doctor if you have a history of Reference depression Opens New Window, suicidal thoughts, Reference anxiety Opens New Window, drug or alcohol abuse, or mental illness.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: October 29, 2012 |
| Medical Review: | Reference Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Reference W. Thomas London, MD - Hepatology |
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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
