Ribavirin-interferon Long Term Side Effects

Linda Says:
Wed, Nov 04 '20, 1:51 PM via mobile

Hi. I was treated for chronic Hep C 20 years ago and been having continuous health problems arise over past 5 years. I would like to know if it’s true that these issues are related to the interferon-ribavarin therapy taken in 1999-2000. I took sports 3x week. Diagnosed with mild Cirrhosis meld score 6. I have developed hypothyroidism at time of tx. Thyroid began to function again until 2015 now have hypothyroidism again, trigeminal neuralgia, fibromyalgia, positive ANA and being tested for PBC. I also have chronic pain, fatigue, depression that comes and goes, and PPPD.

Linda Says:
Wed, Nov 11 '20, 8:17 AM via mobile
Have not received any response. Could someone please advise me on possible side effects 20 years post interferon-ribavarin therapy. Shots were taken 3 times per week and therapy was for 6 months. A physician recently asked me if I had ever taken chemotherapy in response to my diagnosis of trigeminal neuralgia. My answer was no but I did take the interferon to which he suggested this May be the source of my current health issues. Any information is greatly appreciated.

VerFree Says:
Sat, Jul 17 '21, 1:46 PM
Unfortunately, there is really no answer that anyone can give you. Some, or all, of your issues could be related to the Ribavirin/Interferon, or they could be entirely unrelated. That's why the doctor said it 'may' be the source, even medical professionals can't be sure, especially this many years afterwards.

However, I can tell you that you are not the only person who has such questions, which leads me to think there might be some relation, as well.

The FDA lists the typical side effects as possibly including nausea, headache, change in sense of taste, weight changes, and dry skin.

Anytime a doctor prescribes any given medication for a patient, there are always possible risks, so they have to evaluate whether or not the possible benefits outweigh them.

Can anyone else with experience chime in?

Lou Says:
Fri, Jul 23 '21, 4:31 PM via mobile
Re: Linda (# 1)

Hi Linda ,I also suffered from hcv ,I'm 68 yr old male, I don't know much about interferon except I remember the experts calling it a wonder med lol ,I know many people suffered after doing treatment ,I did epclusa few yrs ago I was told no side effects wonder drug ect ,I think I felt better pre treatment but I no longer have the virus, now days it's numb feet hands nausea asthma also infections just to name a few problems yes definitely sideefferts ,guess that's April lem with being around in the 70s .sorry could not answer your questions hope you are ok stay safe, I'm in Australia