Other types of alpha interferon have shown similar results. Experimental drugs By itself, a drug called ribavirin can reduce the levels of ALT enzymes in nearly 50 percent of the patients using it. Ribavirin does not, however, decrease the HCV load and the rate for relapse is almost 100 percent when the treatment is discontinued. The rate of response is more favorable when this drug is used in combination with alpha interferon. Initial results have shown that this combination could be helpful for people who have relapsed after treatment with alpha interferon alone.
Anemia is the main side effect associated with ribavirin.
No clinical trials have yet been announced. Nutritional considerations Because all foods and beverages must be metabolized through the liver, diet can have a great impact on the health of this organ. Special consideration should be made with alcohol intake. The damaging effect of alcohol on the liver has been proven by several studies. HIV and HCV A great concern for people living with both infections is the possibility of reciprocal stimulation of viral replication.