Everybody is different when it comes to side effects. Some people have no side effects at all, while others may have some and may be bothered by them more than other people.
Most side effects can be managed with the help of your healthcare providers.
Side effects that may occur with Hep C treatment are:
- fatigue or tiredness
- muscle aches, may feel like the flu
- headaches
- poor sleep
- nausea and loss of appetite, which may lead to weight loss
- irritability, tearfulness
- depression
- bone marrow suppression, leading to changes in the blood counts as in anemia
- hair loss (hair comes back)
- rash
- mouth sores
Here are some easy ways to help with side effects:
| Side effect |
What to do |
| Fatigue |
Rest as much as possible.
Plan injections for days when you can rest.
Try some mild exercise to improve sleep. |
| Muscle aches, may feel like the flu |
Ask your doctor or nurse if pain relievers are right for you. |
| Headaches |
Drink plenty of water.
Pain relievers or other headache medications may help; ask your doctor or nurse if these are right for you. |
| Nausea and vomiting, or loss of appetite, may lead to weight loss |
Try bland food (not spicy or greasy) and eat small meals frequently through the day.
Ask your doctor about anti-nausea medication. |
| Depression |
If you feel depressed, talk to your doctor or healthcare professional.
Antidepressant drugs can help and are generally safe for your liver. Depression and personality change usually go away 2-4 weeks after treatment is over. |
| Changes in the blood counts as in anemia |
The doctor will check for this by doing blood tests and tell you what to do to improve your condition. |
| Hair loss |
This is usually temporary and not severe; in the meantime, avoid hair chemicals (dyes, colours) and heat (blow dryers and straighteners). |
| Dry skin |
Use moisturizers and drink lots of water. |
| Diarrhea |
Avoid dairy (milk, cheese) and drink lots of water. |
| Mouth sores |
Try bland, non-acidic food and supplements like Boost or Ensure. |
You can find other tips on the
Dealing with Symptoms page.
Report anything else to your doctor, especially if you have severe fatigue, shortness of breath, “palpitations” (feeling like your heart is racing) or headaches that won’t go away.
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