Name: Phone: Best Time To Call: A PharmaCare representative will call to assist you and answer your questions. We will leave a brief message if you are unavailable at the time of our call.

To speak with a PharmaCare pharmacist or representative, Call 800-238-7828

HCV and HIV can both be contracted through the same modes of transmission (primarily blood), and therefore HIV patients are frequently co-infected with HCV. Among the HIV-positive population, it has been estimated that 80-90% of hemophiliacs who received blood products prior to 1992 (before screening testes were perfected) and IV drug abusers are co-infected with HCV. Approximately 10-15% of HIV+ heterosexuals and 2% of homosexuals are co-infected with the virus.

1. It is generally believed in the scientific community that HIV accelerates HCV progression. This means that HCV can replicate faster and cause a more rapid progression to liver disease. So, in an era where novel treatments are able to keep patients with HIV alive longer, HCV is emerging as a new and very serious condition. It is important to note that at this time, liver transplantation is not an available option (although it is being evaluated) to patients with HIV and liver failure. Therefore, treatment is essential.

2. Should treatment regimens be amended in HIV/HCV co-infected individuals and how? Treatment with interferons is associated with numerous side effects, including compromising the body's immune function. These side effects can become troublesome when coupled with the side effects of antiretroviral therapy for HIV (ex. Ribavirin and zidovudine both cause anemia). There are numerous considerations, including dosage adjustment, bloodwork monitoring, adherence to treatment, modification of HIV medications to name just a few. Currently, HIV/HCV co-infected patients are eligible to receive interferons, however they must be followed closely for bloodwork and side effect monitoring. A physician who is experienced in treating both HIV and HCV, and who is familiar with the medications and their side effects is the best practitioner for this patient population.

3. Drug toxicity due to HCV. Many medications used to treat HIV are metabolized by the liver. Taking these medications in standard doses may be inappropriate for co-infected individuals since their liver function may be impaired due to HCV. Again, treatment modifications must be guided by a trained practitioner.

These are just some concerns for co-infected individuals. If you have HIV and do not know your HCV status, it may be worthwhile to be screened for Hepatitis C. This can be done through a blood test.

Information in this Web site is intended to supplement, not replace, the medical advice you receive from your healthcare providers. If you have a question regarding any information contained in this Web site and how it pertains to your personal condition, please consult your physician.

Back To HCV Wellness Center