Hep C Discussion Forum

Hey shnub53,

Nub for short, lol! Welcome to the forum, I'm glad you're here. You must have the "Rash" pretty bad if they're considering stopping treatment. First, from your bio, I see you started on triple with Incivek in February and have cirrhosis. You didn't mention your genotype, but  I have a feeling it must be 1A, right? What has your doctor told you? It would also be helpful if you could tell us what you have already tried. From experience, the rash can be caused by both the Incivek and Ribavirn. You should be done with the Incivek or mighty close, which is it? There are a number of topical applications you can put on it, but you must know the first thing to not do, is scratch. That will set it off like wild fire and is hard to control once it establishes a large area. Things like triamcinolone cream, or a low dose over the counter hydrocortisone cream are helpful. Some get great relief from calamine or caladryl lotions, which can be bought just about anywhere. Oatmeal creams and bath products can cool you down and relieve the itching. You can also try oral medications with doctor approval, like Benadryl or Zyrtec. They can be bought over the counter too. I found applying ice packs to the itchiest areas would keep me from wanting to scratch, but it's difficult, especially at night. If the doctor will allow you to use Benadryl and most will, that will help you sleep at night, because it can make you drowsy.

When you get a chance, would you introduce yourself in the New Members section? Tell us a little about yourself, treatment history, that sort of thing. We've got lots of caring people here with some good ideas and they'd love to help. Good luck and keep in touch! We all know what a bear that triple is, been there and done that! Keep your chin up and eye on the prize!

Tig