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Is Chronic Hepatitis C Curable? 6 Key Facts You Need to Know

Introduction

Millions of Americans are infected with hepatitis C and don’t even know it. Hepatitis C has been called a “silent epidemic” because people can be infected for decades and not even know it.

In fact, 70% or more of those infected show no signs or symptoms. Those who do have signs or symptoms usually experience fever, fatigue, or nausea, which can indicate almost any problem.

If you are between the ages of 54 and 74, you are five times more likely to have hepatitis C than someone older or younger.

What Is A Chronic Hep C Infection?

Chronic Hepatitis C is a long-lasting liver infection caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV). While many experience no symptoms initially, around 80% of acute infections become chronic.

Over decades, untreated cases often lead to liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and an increased risk of hepatocellular carcinoma.

Chronic Hepatitis C Symptoms

Most people with chronic Hepatitis C don’t feel sick and often don’t realize they’re infected—symptoms may not show for 20 years or more.

When symptoms develop, they tend to be mild, vague, and non‑specific—making diagnosis challenging without blood tests.

❗Fatigue and general malaise

❗Loss of appetite, nausea, abdominal discomfort

❗Joint and muscle aches (“flu‑like” symptoms)

❗Dark urine, pale stools, and jaundice

❗Itchy skin (pruritus)

❗Brain fog, mood disturbances

Signs of advanced liver disease. In cirrhosis, look for:

❗Ascites (fluid buildup in the abdomen)

❗Peripheral edema (leg swelling)

❗Spider angiomas, palmar redness

❗Easy bruising/bleeding, gastrointestinal bleeding

❗Hepatic encephalopathy: confusion, sleep issues, slurred speech

Chronic Hepatitis C Causes

Chronic Hep C develops when the hepatitis C virus (HCV) remains in the body for more than six months. The infection occurs only through blood-to-blood exposure, not via casual contact.

Major Transmission Routes

Sharing needles or injection equipment

Blood transfusions and organ transplants (pre-1992)

Unsterilized medical or dental instruments

Tattoos, piercings, body modification with non-sterile tools

Less Common Routes

Mother-to-child (vertical transmission)

Needlestick injuries in healthcare settings

Shared personal items

Sexual transmission

🛑 What Doesn’t Transmit HCV?

Avoid anxiety over casual interactions—HCV does not spread through:

Hugging, kissing, or shaking hands

Sharing food, drinks, dishes, or utensils

Sneezing, coughing, or toilet seats

Mosquito or insect bites

Is Chronic Hepatitis C Curable?

Yes — Chronic Hepatitis C is highly curable, thanks to modern antiviral medications.

Chronic hepatitis C is no longer a life sentence. The vast majority of cases are curable and early treatment can save lives.

While drug treatments can be expensive, they are transformative – offering a real pathway to eradicating the virus.

Chronic Hepatitis C Treatment

Ascletavir (Ravidasvir) is an investigational, pan-genotypic NS5A inhibitor developed by Pharco Pharmaceuticals and studied extensively in combination with sofosbuvir.

Emitasvir is another orally active NS5A inhibitor under clinical development, notably in China.

Generally well tolerated. Adverse events were mild, and serious AEs weren’t tied to the drug.

Both drugs support once-daily dosing and ribavirin-free combinations—easier for patients and healthcare systems. Effective even in harder-to-treat groups (cirrhosis, HIV co-infection, genotype 3).

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only from hk dengyuemed and does not serve as a substitute for professional medical advice.

Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations and treatment options.

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Duvyzat: 6 Breakthrough Insights into the New Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Hope

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) is a severe genetic disorder characterized by progressive muscle degeneration and weakness.

In March 2024, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Duvyzat (givinostat), marking a significant advancement in DMD treatment.

This blog explores 7 essential insights about Duvyzat, shedding light on its mechanism, clinical efficacy, and impact on the DMD community.

What Is The Drug Duvyzat Used For?

First Nonsteroidal Treatment Approved for All DMD Genetic Variants

Duvyzat stands out as the first nonsteroidal medication approved by the FDA to treat DMD across all genetic variants in patients aged six and older.

Unlike previous treatments targeting specific mutations, it offers a mutation-agnostic approach, broadening therapeutic options for a wider patient population.

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD)

The most common form of muscular dystrophy in childhood and usually affects males.

It is a rare neurological disorder that results in progressive muscle weakness due to a lack of a muscle protein called antimyotrophin.

Over time, the muscles deteriorate, leading to reduced walking and muscle strength, and eventually breathing difficulties and ultimately premature death.

Mechanism Of Action

Targets HDAC Overactivity to Protect Muscle Function

Duvyzat is a histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor that addresses the overactivity of HDAC enzymes in dystrophic muscle tissue — a hallmark of DMD pathology.

By inhibiting HDACs, Givinostat aims to reduce inflammation, decrease fibrosis, and promote muscle fiber regeneration, thereby preserving muscle function

Efficacy In Slowing Disease Progression

The only nonsteroidal treatment indicated for Duchenne muscular dystrophy in people 6 years of age and older, regardless of their genetic variant or ability to walk.

Clinical trials have shown that Givinostat can significantly slow the progression of DMD.

In a pivotal Phase 3 study, patients treated with Duvyzat exhibited a ~40% slower decline in functional abilities over 18 months, as measured by the four-stair climb test, compared to those on placebo.

Delays Disease Progression by 2 Years

A simulation model using data from the Duchenne Regulatory Science Consortium indicated that Duvyzat could delay DMD progression by approximately two years compared to standard care.

This delay translates to extended mobility and improved quality of life for patients.

Oral Administration Enhances Patient Compliance

Duvyzat is administered orally, offering a more convenient alternative to injectable treatments.

This ease of administration can lead to better adherence to the treatment regimen, especially important for pediatric patients and their caregivers.

Common Side Effects Are Generally Manageable

The most frequently reported side effects of Duvyzat include diarrhea, abdominal pain, thrombocytopenia (low platelet count), nausea/vomiting, elevated triglyceride levels, and fever.

These adverse effects are typically manageable with appropriate medical supervision.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only from hk dengyuemed and does not serve as a substitute for professional medical advice.

Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations and treatment options.