I'm started my 6th box this morning and am with Ragdoll - no side effects for someone who is sensitive to things - I posted it elsewhere but week four blood tests showed Hep C undetected....keep up the good work.
RAGDOLL said
Mar 9, 2016
Hi Mary, I think you will do fine. I had same treatment as you over a year ago and virtually no side effects. It was like taking vitamins each day. I am normally very sensitive to drugs and was a little concerned at the beginning. I think my husband, RC, was more concerned because of my history of allergies and sensitivity. But I really did great and I started treatment about 5 weeks after a full hip replacement. So a lot going on at the time. Best wishes to you and just keep your doctor informed. Chris
Ari-anna said
Mar 9, 2016
Hi Mary, sounds like you are doing just grand. I was on Viekira and Riba for 24 weeks and was amazingly hungry all the time. I lost weight initially then had issues with water retention so weighed more and looked puffy towards the end but it was fluid.
Not great for the moral however my weight has stabilised now and the water retention is under control with low doses of a diuretic.
Looking forward to hearing more updates from you.
Aroha
Ari
Tig said
Mar 8, 2016
Hi Mary,
I'm happy to hear that things are going relatively smooth for you. If you were going to experience any early side effects, you'd know by now. Keep doing what you're doing, it's working!
There have been a few mention some weight gain while on all of these protocols, but weight loss is also common. There is a lot of information regarding bloating from V Pak. If that's from gas or water retention, only your scale knows for sure. As long as you avoid an unhealthy diet (sweets) you should be able to lose it post treatment.
These medications can change a lot of things during treatment. Just stick to the plan, treat yourself right and all will be back to normal soon enough. You'll be back in charge in no time! Let us know when you have your lab tests done and good luck!
JimmyK said
Mar 8, 2016
Hi Mary!
I lost about 28 lbs but then again I failed like a led Kite! Sounds like you are doing great! Enjoy the ride and mold the bod later! Get well Sis!
JimmyK
Mary1982 said
Mar 8, 2016
Hey , today is 3 weeks on the treatment everything is going really well for me I get a few headaches here and there but I'm okay ..I'm going for my 4 weeks blood test next Thursday I can't wait to see if I've cleared my hep c 😀I'll let you's know how I go . I've noticed that I've put on some extra kilos dose anyone no if viekira can cause u to gain weight ??
JimmyK said
Feb 24, 2016
Mary1982 wrote:
Yes I am anxious jimmy I've got 3 kids two boys 9 ,8 and a girl she's 5 so yes I dt want to get bad side affects I have to be there for my kids so it could be that I'm doing this to my self . I will let you's know what happends tomorrow at the dr .
And let me add a whole bunch of brothers and sisters here. We are here for you and know where you are at. It is important you know then when fears arise you have us and we will do all we can to share our resources, experiences and yes the fears we share in common. Soon you will come to understand it is no where near where your mind takes you.
Warm regards Mary.
JimmyK
Shadowfax said
Feb 24, 2016
Firechic19 wrote:
Plus the members of this forum are amazing! They're very informative and supportive. You couldn't ask for a better group of ppl to take this ride with!
Even if we are a little bit crazy, we are all still here for you and many of us taking one protocol or another. You are in good company.
Cheers.
Firechic19 said
Feb 24, 2016
You'll be fine! I have a 4 month old and I'm on Viekira with Riba. Try not to worry about it so much. That's hard to do trust me I know but it really isn't anything like you worry it's going to be. I scared my self to death before my meds arrived because I kept reading about the possible side effects. But it's a piece of cake compared to what I thought I was going to be experiencing. I was expecting constant puking and hair loss, instead I just forget what I'm doing all of the time and get irritated easily lol It's due to the Riba though.
You'll do just fine! I have faith in you! Plus the members of this forum are amazing! They're very informative and supportive. You couldn't ask for a better group of ppl to take this ride with!
Hope you get good news when u see the dr tomorrow!
Mary1982 said
Feb 24, 2016
Yes I am anxious jimmy I've got 3 kids two boys 9 ,8 and a girl she's 5 so yes I dt want to get bad side affects I have to be there for my kids so it could be that I'm doing this to my self . I will let you's know what happends tomorrow at the dr .
Mary1982 said
Feb 24, 2016
Yes I'm GENO type 1 no RBV sorry I'm new to this
JimmyK said
Feb 23, 2016
Hello Again,
Personally I am glad you were pulled off for the night anyway until the Doctor has a look at you. I will assume you must be a Geno Type 1b in that you are not taking RBV and further that you are not cirrhotic.
You opened the thread on day 5 and made mention of "....what if today I get side affects I'm just so scared..."
As you must know stress is a serious trigger for asthma. Anxiety can easily bring on asthma attacks. It is wise to cease taking the Meds until you speak to the Doctor but I strongly suggest you mention how very afraid you are of side affects.
There is a strong likelihood you are bringing on the attacks due to an exaggerated fear but only your Doctor can tell you for sure.
In that you do have asthma you really need to overcome your fear of treatment if you intend to battle this Dragon. Currently (and again this is an assumption based on your treatment) as a 1b you are in the easy to cure category. You do not want to approach this wrong and lose your treatment naive status as that generally tends to simply compound issues at re-treatment.
First thing I suggest is to get a hold of your fear even if that requires your Doctor assist via prescribed treatment for it. An asthmatic simply cannot come into this is such a fearful way. You have to approach this calmly and if you do you will do fine.
Let us know how it goes tomorrow and God Bless.
JimmyK
Mary1982 said
Feb 23, 2016
Yes that's right I'm not on the riba just the vikera pak for 12 weeks my apotment is tomorrow but I went to my local GP and he prescribed me prednisone I rang up my liver dr to make sure I am allowed to take prednisone he wanted me to stop the vikera dt take it tonight and come and see him tomorrow so he can have a good look at me .
Tig said
Feb 23, 2016
You're absolutely right Jimmy. That got crossed up about halfway through. Gracie and I both made mention of that. Our mistake. Looks like Pat (Mary) is not on Ribavirin. Right Pat? The assumption was made that low HGB secondary to the Riba may be responsible for the shortness of breath (SOB). Since that's not the case, I'm glad a doctors appointment is scheduled. Don't mess with Asthma!
I think I gave you the link to set up your signature Pat. Here it is if I'm dreaming!
There seems to be a bit of confusion here. First post mentions NO RBV. Many of the responses assume RBV. A good signature would be helpful.
Also Ventolin evey half hour not every hour is what was stated and if that is the case I would consider an ER Visit. Now.
JimmyK
-- Edited by JimmyK on Tuesday 23rd of February 2016 11:43:42 PM
Mary1982 said
Feb 23, 2016
Hey dave , I think u mean a spacer I've been using it but still nothing
Linuxter said
Feb 23, 2016
Ya, if I use it too often it makes me nervous and antsy and it tends to amp me up a lot.
I haven't used it while on Riba but I can see how too much then could make for a rough ride.
If you ever get a severe asthma attack remember there's nothing wrong with calling 911.
I think discussing it with your Doc will help a lot though.
Oh, and I use one of those chambers (forgot what they are called) that attaches to the ventolin to help let it mix with air properly before inhaling (ask your Dr, they'll know what you mean).
Wishing ya Well,
Dave
-- Edited by Linuxter on Tuesday 23rd of February 2016 11:15:48 PM
I have asthma and unless prescribed by your Doctor once per hour is WAY too much according to Data Sheet (see Data Sheet above).
You should discuss how often, how many puffs and techniques with your Doctor.
Using too much ventolin can definitely cause side effects, some are listed in the Mayo Clinic article.
Dave
-- Edited by Linuxter on Tuesday 23rd of February 2016 08:35:05 PM
Tig said
Feb 23, 2016
Hi Pat,
Don't allow yourself to get excited or anxious. That's the medication talking. The difficulty breathing is a common complaint with Ribavirin and as Gracie mentioned, after some blood testing, simple stuff, they're able to see exactly how the Ribavirin is affecting your RBC's and the Hemoglobin. They can reduce it a slight percentage and is not a risk to your successful completion of treatment. This is something we all had to deal with during treatment, so do your best to understand that this is par for the course for many. No big deal, but with your asthma and increased need for the Ventolin, you need to get it diagnosed and resolved. You'll be much more comfortable, and the shortness of breath should be noticeably improved. Good luck and let us know what you hear.
Mary1982 said
Feb 23, 2016
Ive got apotment tomorrow to see the dr I will tell him him about my asthma I'm just so anxious with this the treatment .. I'll let you's no how I go .
hepcmannyc said
Feb 23, 2016
Mary 1982 - oh my goodness. Yes that's way too much ventolin. I also have asthma and so far its been normal though I do feel my allergies are acting up! I would consult your doctor - my next appointment is next week so I'm going to mention my allergies. Please keep us posted.
Tig said
Feb 23, 2016
Hi Pat,
I agree with Gracie. It's entirely possible that you are experiencing some side effects from the treatment drugs. Since you are asthmatic, it's very important that you get in and make sure. Ribavirin really reduces your red blood cell components, one of which is Hemoglobin and it's the oxygen carrier in your blood.
When you're feeling better, I want you to consider filling in some of your treatment history into your signature line. It will then show up with your posts and it helps us understand your own story better. You can see examples below most of our own posts. Here's a link to that and some abbreviations we frequently use here.
Hi Mary, welcome to the forum. As Gracie said, if you are experiencing problems related to tx, you should contact your doctor. Having uncertainty and being anxious about starting a course of treatment is normal. I think we've all experienced this to some degree. Having to deal with all that accompanies this virus can be overwhelming. The time passes very quickly and you're on the way to getting rid of this nasty virus. Stay focused on the prize. All here are glad to share, and help in any way we can in smoothing your path to SVR. You are among friends that have an understanding of what you're dealing with. You'll do fine.
Gracie said
Feb 23, 2016
You could have low hemoglobin from the RIBA. Go see your doctor, they may reduce the dose of RIBA for you. What fibrosis stage are you? I had shortness of breath when I was on RIBA, and I was very anemic. Don't think having to use a puffer every half hour is a normal side, so best to get your numbers checked And talk to your doctor.
Mary1982 said
Feb 23, 2016
Hey tig , ever since I stared my treatment I've been using my ventolin every half hour I just can't breath well , im a asthmatic do u think it might be the meds Doing this ??
Tig said
Feb 23, 2016
Hi Pat,
Since you started this section or thread, it is considered yours for discussion. Since this is in the New Members section of the forum, it is where you typically introduce yourself to the rest of the membership. You will notice the replies that followed your first post or entry. They are directed to you.
Once you have introduced yourself and have received responses, feel free to either continue using it, or select another appropriate section of the forum to continue. You can find helpful information via the homepage index. The Forum Information and Announcements section will help you learn how to use the various sections of the forum itself.
Once treatment has started, we usually recommend starting another thread in the On Treatment section or discussing issues in similarly titled areas. You can find info on Viekira Pak by entering the term in the search box above as well.
If you have any questions on how to use the forum, ask anyone for help or direct your questions to any member of the Admin Team (Moderators). Everyone here is quite helpful.
Hi Mary! I am three weeks into treatment (without Ribaviran) and so far no Sx. I was told that usually Sx occur in early treatment so it sounds like you are doing wonderfully. Contiuned best wishes.
Ari-anna said
Feb 21, 2016
Hi Mary, I did 24 weeks on Viekira Pak with Ribavirin. I did get side effects, but the worst was towards the end of treatment. As you are on it for 12 weeks and without Ribavirin your chances of bad side effects are a lot less.
If I had to do it again to get rid of the Hep C then I would without hesitation.
Welcome to the forum and all the best for your treatment journey and eventual cure.
Ari
Tig said
Feb 21, 2016
Hi Pat,
Are you looking for your thread? Can I help?
Mary1982 said
Feb 21, 2016
Hi , thanks for the support it means a lot . I've had hep c since I was 17 years old it's been a long time . I'm GT1 on vikera pak for 12 weeks . Ive heard good stuff about the meds and I've heard some really bad that's why I'm worried and very ,very anxious
wmlj1960 said
Feb 20, 2016
Hi Mary and welcome from me as well.
You remind me of me when I first started treatment in 2014. I was a good example of somebody who had read all about treatment, made a note of all the negative stuff and expected every bit of it would happen to me. What I found out was that I was freaking myself out for no reason. Those side effects that I dreaded so bad turned out to be manageable discomforts if they even materialized at all. Most of them never did. And the truth often times is that the person experiencing the side effects is not doing the simple things that can help prevent them such as what Tig said. Staying adequately hydrated sounds too simple to be such a help but it is really important. Take care of your body and it will take care of you. Don't eat a bunch of junk food, get adequate rest and get some light exercise daily. You're likely going to get through this much easier than you think so relax, have a seat and enjoy the ride into your Hep C free future. Keep us up to date on how you are doing and don't torture yourself with non-existent problems. You can do this!
Tig said
Feb 20, 2016
Hi Mary,
Welcome! I'm glad you're here and don't think you're going to have the side effects that you're worried about. I hope so anyway! The Ribavirin tends to cause many of the sides you have heard about. I know several people on the V Pak protocol that sailed through treatment, without issues. I'm going to put in a good word for you with head Dragon Slayer!
Let us know a little about yourself and if you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask. We've got a great amount of information here, use the search function to find much of it.
Others will be along to say hello and provide you with additional help. Good luck and don't be scared of your medication or the side effects. We'll help you along the way. Just be sure you drink 3-4 liters of water daily, without fail! That will reduce the likelihood of any side effects all by itself.
Linuxter said
Feb 20, 2016
Hi Mary,
Welcome to the forum! This is a great place you'll like it. Lots of great people here, very friendly and helpful.
Also a ton of good information and very knowledgeable people here.
It's natural to be a bit scared when starting a new drug but I assure you it's never as bad as you imagine.
I'm on treatment right now too, I'm taking Sovaldi/ Ribavirin. The Riba can be a bit bothersome at times but it's nice that you don't need to take that. Just for the record, I was very scared before starting the meds, I think we all are initially but it gets WAY easier as you go and understand more of what's going on and what to expect.
I'm sure others will be along shortly, some, no doubt, also taking Vikera Pak.
Not to worry, you find you have lots of friends here that will help you every step of the way.
So welcome, kick back and enjoy the ride, all will be fine ... you landed at the right place, wonderful support group here.
Dave
Mary1982 said
Feb 20, 2016
Hey , this is my 5th day today with vikera pak no riba for 12 weeks , I haven't had much side affects but every morning and night when it's time to have my meds I'm scared to take them I keep thinking what if today I get side affects I'm just so scared .
Hi Mary
I'm started my 6th box this morning and am with Ragdoll - no side effects for someone who is sensitive to things - I posted it elsewhere but week four blood tests showed Hep C undetected....keep up the good work.
Hi Mary, I think you will do fine. I had same treatment as you over a year ago and virtually no side effects. It was like taking vitamins each day. I am normally very sensitive to drugs and was a little concerned at the beginning. I think my husband, RC, was more concerned because of my history of allergies and sensitivity. But I really did great and I started treatment about 5 weeks after a full hip replacement. So a lot going on at the time. Best wishes to you and just keep your doctor informed. Chris
Hi Mary, sounds like you are doing just grand. I was on Viekira and Riba for 24 weeks and was amazingly hungry all the time. I lost weight initially then had issues with water retention so weighed more and looked puffy towards the end but it was fluid.
Not great for the moral however my weight has stabilised now and the water retention is under control with low doses of a diuretic.
Looking forward to hearing more updates from you.
Aroha
Ari
Hi Mary,
I'm happy to hear that things are going relatively smooth for you. If you were going to experience any early side effects, you'd know by now. Keep doing what you're doing, it's working!
There have been a few mention some weight gain while on all of these protocols, but weight loss is also common. There is a lot of information regarding bloating from V Pak. If that's from gas or water retention, only your scale knows for sure. As long as you avoid an unhealthy diet (sweets) you should be able to lose it post treatment.
These medications can change a lot of things during treatment. Just stick to the plan, treat yourself right and all will be back to normal soon enough. You'll be back in charge in no time! Let us know when you have your lab tests done and good luck!
Hi Mary!
I lost about 28 lbs but then again I failed like a led Kite! Sounds like you are doing great! Enjoy the ride and mold the bod later! Get well Sis!
JimmyK
And let me add a whole bunch of brothers and sisters here. We are here for you and know where you are at. It is important you know then when fears arise you have us and we will do all we can to share our resources, experiences and yes the fears we share in common. Soon you will come to understand it is no where near where your mind takes you.
Warm regards Mary.
JimmyK
Even if we are a little bit crazy, we are all still here for you and many of us taking one protocol or another. You are in good company.
Cheers.
You'll do just fine! I have faith in you! Plus the members of this forum are amazing! They're very informative and supportive. You couldn't ask for a better group of ppl to take this ride with!
Hope you get good news when u see the dr tomorrow!
Hello Again,
Personally I am glad you were pulled off for the night anyway until the Doctor has a look at you. I will assume you must be a Geno Type 1b in that you are not taking RBV and further that you are not cirrhotic.
You opened the thread on day 5 and made mention of "....what if today I get side affects I'm just so scared..."
As you must know stress is a serious trigger for asthma. Anxiety can easily bring on asthma attacks. It is wise to cease taking the Meds until you speak to the Doctor but I strongly suggest you mention how very afraid you are of side affects.
There is a strong likelihood you are bringing on the attacks due to an exaggerated fear but only your Doctor can tell you for sure.
In that you do have asthma you really need to overcome your fear of treatment if you intend to battle this Dragon. Currently (and again this is an assumption based on your treatment) as a 1b you are in the easy to cure category. You do not want to approach this wrong and lose your treatment naive status as that generally tends to simply compound issues at re-treatment.
First thing I suggest is to get a hold of your fear even if that requires your Doctor assist via prescribed treatment for it. An asthmatic simply cannot come into this is such a fearful way. You have to approach this calmly and if you do you will do fine.
Let us know how it goes tomorrow and God Bless.
JimmyK
You're absolutely right Jimmy. That got crossed up about halfway through. Gracie and I both made mention of that. Our mistake. Looks like Pat (Mary) is not on Ribavirin. Right Pat? The assumption was made that low HGB secondary to the Riba may be responsible for the shortness of breath (SOB). Since that's not the case, I'm glad a doctors appointment is scheduled. Don't mess with Asthma!
I think I gave you the link to set up your signature Pat. Here it is if I'm dreaming!
http://hepcfriends.activeboard.com/t58862021/how-to-create-your-signature-forum-abbreviation-definitions/
Greetings,
There seems to be a bit of confusion here. First post mentions NO RBV. Many of the responses assume RBV. A good signature would be helpful.
Also Ventolin evey half hour not every hour is what was stated and if that is the case I would consider an ER Visit. Now.
JimmyK
-- Edited by JimmyK on Tuesday 23rd of February 2016 11:43:42 PM
Ya, if I use it too often it makes me nervous and antsy and it tends to amp me up a lot.
I haven't used it while on Riba but I can see how too much then could make for a rough ride.
If you ever get a severe asthma attack remember there's nothing wrong with calling 911.
I think discussing it with your Doc will help a lot though.
Oh, and I use one of those chambers (forgot what they are called) that attaches to the ventolin to help let it mix with air properly before inhaling (ask your Dr, they'll know what you mean).
Wishing ya Well,
Dave
-- Edited by Linuxter on Tuesday 23rd of February 2016 11:15:48 PM
Ventolin Inhaler Data Sheet
Mayo Clinic article about Ventolin and side effects
I have asthma and unless prescribed by your Doctor once per hour is WAY too much according to Data Sheet (see Data Sheet above).
You should discuss how often, how many puffs and techniques with your Doctor.
Using too much ventolin can definitely cause side effects, some are listed in the Mayo Clinic article.
Dave
-- Edited by Linuxter on Tuesday 23rd of February 2016 08:35:05 PM
Hi Pat,
Don't allow yourself to get excited or anxious. That's the medication talking. The difficulty breathing is a common complaint with Ribavirin and as Gracie mentioned, after some blood testing, simple stuff, they're able to see exactly how the Ribavirin is affecting your RBC's and the Hemoglobin. They can reduce it a slight percentage and is not a risk to your successful completion of treatment. This is something we all had to deal with during treatment, so do your best to understand that this is par for the course for many. No big deal, but with your asthma and increased need for the Ventolin, you need to get it diagnosed and resolved. You'll be much more comfortable, and the shortness of breath should be noticeably improved. Good luck and let us know what you hear.
Mary 1982 - oh my goodness. Yes that's way too much ventolin. I also have asthma and so far its been normal though I do feel my allergies are acting up! I would consult your doctor - my next appointment is next week so I'm going to mention my allergies. Please keep us posted.
Hi Pat,
I agree with Gracie. It's entirely possible that you are experiencing some side effects from the treatment drugs. Since you are asthmatic, it's very important that you get in and make sure. Ribavirin really reduces your red blood cell components, one of which is Hemoglobin and it's the oxygen carrier in your blood.
When you're feeling better, I want you to consider filling in some of your treatment history into your signature line. It will then show up with your posts and it helps us understand your own story better. You can see examples below most of our own posts. Here's a link to that and some abbreviations we frequently use here.
http://hepcfriends.activeboard.com/t58862021/how-to-create-your-signature-forum-abbreviation-definitions/
Hi Mary, welcome to the forum. As Gracie said, if you are experiencing problems related to tx, you should contact your doctor. Having uncertainty and being anxious about starting a course of treatment is normal. I think we've all experienced this to some degree. Having to deal with all that accompanies this virus can be overwhelming. The time passes very quickly and you're on the way to getting rid of this nasty virus. Stay focused on the prize. All here are glad to share, and help in any way we can in smoothing your path to SVR. You are among friends that have an understanding of what you're dealing with. You'll do fine.
You could have low hemoglobin from the RIBA. Go see your doctor, they may reduce the dose of RIBA for you. What fibrosis stage are you? I had shortness of breath when I was on RIBA, and I was very anemic. Don't think having to use a puffer every half hour is a normal side, so best to get your numbers checked And talk to your doctor.
Hey tig , ever since I stared my treatment I've been using my ventolin every half hour I just can't breath well , im a asthmatic do u think it might be the meds Doing this ??
Hi Pat,
Since you started this section or thread, it is considered yours for discussion. Since this is in the New Members section of the forum, it is where you typically introduce yourself to the rest of the membership. You will notice the replies that followed your first post or entry. They are directed to you.
Once you have introduced yourself and have received responses, feel free to either continue using it, or select another appropriate section of the forum to continue. You can find helpful information via the homepage index. The Forum Information and Announcements section will help you learn how to use the various sections of the forum itself.
Once treatment has started, we usually recommend starting another thread in the On Treatment section or discussing issues in similarly titled areas. You can find info on Viekira Pak by entering the term in the search box above as well.
If you have any questions on how to use the forum, ask anyone for help or direct your questions to any member of the Admin Team (Moderators). Everyone here is quite helpful.
http://hepcfriends.activeboard.com/f388089/forum-information-and-announcements/
Hey tig , what do u mean about the thread ??
Bump... Here's your thread, Pat.
Bump. Did you see this Pat?
Hi Mary! I am three weeks into treatment (without Ribaviran) and so far no Sx. I was told that usually Sx occur in early treatment so it sounds like you are doing wonderfully. Contiuned best wishes.
Hi Mary, I did 24 weeks on Viekira Pak with Ribavirin. I did get side effects, but the worst was towards the end of treatment. As you are on it for 12 weeks and without Ribavirin your chances of bad side effects are a lot less.
If I had to do it again to get rid of the Hep C then I would without hesitation.
Welcome to the forum and all the best for your treatment journey and eventual cure.
Ari
Hi Pat,
Are you looking for your thread? Can I help?
Hi , thanks for the support it means a lot . I've had hep c since I was 17 years old it's been a long time . I'm GT1 on vikera pak for 12 weeks . Ive heard good stuff about the meds and I've heard some really bad that's why I'm worried and very ,very anxious
Hi Mary and welcome from me as well.
You remind me of me when I first started treatment in 2014. I was a good example of somebody who had read all about treatment, made a note of all the negative stuff and expected every bit of it would happen to me. What I found out was that I was freaking myself out for no reason. Those side effects that I dreaded so bad turned out to be manageable discomforts if they even materialized at all. Most of them never did. And the truth often times is that the person experiencing the side effects is not doing the simple things that can help prevent them such as what Tig said. Staying adequately hydrated sounds too simple to be such a help but it is really important. Take care of your body and it will take care of you. Don't eat a bunch of junk food, get adequate rest and get some light exercise daily. You're likely going to get through this much easier than you think so relax, have a seat and enjoy the ride into your Hep C free future. Keep us up to date on how you are doing and don't torture yourself with non-existent problems. You can do this!
Hi Mary,
Welcome! I'm glad you're here and don't think you're going to have the side effects that you're worried about. I hope so anyway! The Ribavirin tends to cause many of the sides you have heard about. I know several people on the V Pak protocol that sailed through treatment, without issues. I'm going to put in a good word for you with head Dragon Slayer!
Let us know a little about yourself and if you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask. We've got a great amount of information here, use the search function to find much of it.
Others will be along to say hello and provide you with additional help. Good luck and don't be scared of your medication or the side effects. We'll help you along the way. Just be sure you drink 3-4 liters of water daily, without fail! That will reduce the likelihood of any side effects all by itself.
Hi Mary,
Welcome to the forum! This is a great place you'll like it. Lots of great people here, very friendly and helpful.
Also a ton of good information and very knowledgeable people here.
It's natural to be a bit scared when starting a new drug but I assure you it's never as bad as you imagine.
I'm on treatment right now too, I'm taking Sovaldi/ Ribavirin. The Riba can be a bit bothersome at times but it's nice that you don't need to take that. Just for the record, I was very scared before starting the meds, I think we all are initially but it gets WAY easier as you go and understand more of what's going on and what to expect.
I'm sure others will be along shortly, some, no doubt, also taking Vikera Pak.
Not to worry, you find you have lots of friends here that will help you every step of the way.
So welcome, kick back and enjoy the ride, all will be fine ... you landed at the right place, wonderful support group here.
Dave
Hey , this is my 5th day today with vikera pak no riba for 12 weeks , I haven't had much side affects but every morning and night when it's time to have my meds I'm scared to take them I keep thinking what if today I get side affects I'm just so scared .