Hep C Discussion Forum

Pablito · Senior Member

RE: Approved for Dak/Sov Geno 3 Treatment

wendyo · Guru

Nice labs Libby, that is great news. My glucose is back to normal now in fact had blood work recently for new primary and all was normal. May be the only thing normal about me hahaha

Syd glad you are feeling well and you are right, it is worth it.

Loopy Lisa · Guru

That is fantastic news Libby, I'm so excited for you! I wont know my viral load until the end as that is the only result that is important. I have my bloods on the 21st and results on the 26th. They are only ALAT, ASAT, bilirubine total and bloedbeeld - fullblood count. Not as exciting as yours. Although that might bother some people, I'm pretty laid back about it.

Yeah I am feeling tired a lot now, but that is nothing terrible. My eye has cleared up now, and my ear is also a lot better. I am so happy you are already UND, maybe I am too, but alas I wont know for a couple of months, but that is amazingly fast!

I am grinning about your results Libby, I imagine it gave you a big boost!

I hope your IBS clears up. I have had that for years, and suddenly it has gone for the first time since I had my appendix removed. Well, congrats on hitting the second bottle phase, now its gonna kill the stragglers left in the liver. Not far behind you!

Thanks Syd, I am so glad you got through OK and are recovering, I really don't have much to complain about really, I dosed up on a lot of salt and I'm already feeling a lot better. Riba is a nasty little bugger, I'm so happy I skipped that this time. I know what people go through with that, its no fun. A big hearty congrats as well, it must feel beautiful to say SVR! :D

On the upside we are no longer treated like chemo patients. I had to have on previous treatment weekly blood checks and hospital visits as both white and red cells went low fast. I will be glad when Riba is phased out as it is tough on a lot of people. This is pretty much a no nonsense treatment with minimum problems and just a little dash of sauce to keep us on our toes.

Thanks for the support folks x

Linuxter · Guru

Heya Syd,

So good to hear that you're doing so very well. Won't be long now and you'll be a sittin' in the 'catbird seat' (SVR), we all do love to see that dragon go down and Dragon Slayer stand victorious!

Sounds to me like your system is liking the prospect of victory now and responding accordingly. You're on the mend and in great spirits, I mean spirited as in going to make a nice Green Smoothie and still drinking LOTs of water to help in that healing process.

All so great to hear Syd ... smile

The Linuxstr

Sydhanrahan · Guru

Hi Libby and Lisa,

i began 12 weeks of Sof/dac/RIBA in December and went on to another 12 weeks of just SofDac immediately afterwards. i had a tough time on RIBA - pains in legs and back, rash, stomach pains, depression, anxiety, skin stuff, anemia etc. however once I finished it and was only taking Sof/ dac I was symptom free.

It is nearly two months since I finished treatment and slowly I am feeling more energetic and cheerful. i was virus free at end of treatment and have just got my four week EOT which was also virus free. My liver was On the way out and I really feel that I have been given a miraculous new chance to live.

Good luck girls,

its all worth it.

Syd

JimmyK · Guru

The ALT and AST may be high, but at only three weeks the drop is fantastic. Those are pretty good indicators of a healing in the works. Next time they will be even lower and likely in the normal range.

Don't forget to change your sig line now that you are in the UND Club!

wink

JimmyK

Libby999 · Member

Tig,

Glad you brought up the elevated Glucose. I was stressing out about it and was worried I was going to have pre-diabetes. My Glucose usually comes back good. Happy to know that should resolve itself. My AST and ALT levels are half of what they were but i am hoping as time goes on they will improve. Thank you for the support. Let's see what my doctor has to say on Monday.

Dave,

Yes Dak/Sov rocks!!!Thank you for the kind words.

Can't wait for Lisa to get her blood work.

Have a great weekend all,

Libby

Tig · Admin

Congratulations! Wow, 3 weeks and already undetected, whew! These new treatments are incredibly effective. Your bloodwork looks quite good, disregard the elevated Glucose, that happens all the time on these DAA's and returns to normal following the end of treatment. 103 isn't much of an elevation anyway. The ALT and AST remain elevated, but you've just started treatment and you should see those two items begin their descent in short order. As the virus is destroyed and the cause of the inflammation is removed from the equation, the enzymes begin to correct.

LOOKING GOOD!!!! smile

Linuxter · Guru

WOW! What a difference 3 short weeks makes ,,

I think "Not Detected" about says it all ..

Nice

You're on the Express Train to SVR ...

Thanks for sharing the wonderful news, Dak/Sov Rocks!

Dave

Libby999 · Member

I had blood work done at 3 weeks and received the results online today. I see the Doctor on Monday. I will copy and paste here. I am very excited Hip Hip Hooray. Also, Lisa in reviewing my blood work I show no signs of anemia (bust very tired), but with you being sick with eye and ear infections they are probably not helping. I still have a bad stomach and IBS problems but that is the least of my problems, I know it will be gone soon enough.

If anyone wants to chime in on my blood work I would love to hear opinions. I think it says nothing is detected now. OMG it is only 3 weeks when I had my blood drawn I also attached a PDF to look at all lab work.

HCV RNA, QUANTITATIVE REAL TIME PCR

Current
Over time

HCV RNA, QUANTITATIVE REAL TIME PCR

<15 NOT DETECTED

<15 (IU/mL)

HCV RNA, QUANTITATIVE REAL TIME PCR

<1.18 NOT DETECTED

<1.18 (Log IU/mL)

-- Edited by Libby999 on Friday 15th of July 2016 07:07:53 PM

Loopy Lisa · Guru

Tig56 wrote:
Actually, Dak is known to cause anemia and when combined with Ribavirn, it can be profound in some. That's why people on Sov/Dak/Riba should have more frequent blood analysis, such as a complete blood count or CBC. I've got a mosquito under my desk doing a CBC on me right now! Itch!!!
Lisa, I know you're not one to look at the various side effects, but I took a screen shot of some of the most common complaints and events mentioned in the trials. It's quite telling and knowing that some of these things are drug side effects, helps you to understand that it's a drug action or reaction and is not something to be worried about. That's the unfortunate thing about all of these drugs, and particularly the ones from the dark ages that included Interferon, they cause side effects. It's a sign in many cases that they're doing their job. Ribavirin as we all know, is notorious for causing hemolytic anemia, which in turn drops the hemoglobin and results in fatigue, shortness of breath and can cause skin disorders, etc. As unpleasant as some of these side effects are, they tell us the drugs are doing their thing. Hopefully, we as a community can help each other deal with those issues when they come along. That's what we strive for anyway!
Here is that screenshot, I hope it's viewable.

Thanks Tig,

Oh that's not bad at all. Well I've skipped pain, headaches, and bottom issues so I consider myself darn lucky. I have to wait til the 26th to see my Doctor as she is on vacation. I could see a replacement, but I prefer to see her, so I'd rather wait. I am not worried about it tbh, I can still do my normal days and that is what matters. I did discover last night though that my husbands blood pressure is too high when we compared results. I'm pretty glad we know so I can put him on a healthier diet. Thanks for the snapshot, it explains all is ok. :D x

Tig · Admin

Actually, Dak is known to cause anemia and when combined with Ribavirn, it can be profound in some. That's why people on Sov/Dak/Riba should have more frequent blood analysis, such as a complete blood count or CBC. I've got a mosquito under my desk doing a CBC on me right now! Itch!!!

Lisa, I know you're not one to look at the various side effects, but I took a screen shot of some of the most common complaints and events mentioned in the trials. It's quite telling and knowing that some of these things are drug side effects, helps you to understand that it's a drug action or reaction and is not something to be worried about. That's the unfortunate thing about all of these drugs, and particularly the ones from the dark ages that included Interferon, they cause side effects. It's a sign in many cases that they're doing their job. Ribavirin as we all know, is notorious for causing hemolytic anemia, which in turn drops the hemoglobin and results in fatigue, shortness of breath and can cause skin disorders, etc. As unpleasant as some of these side effects are, they tell us the drugs are doing their thing. Hopefully, we as a community can help each other deal with those issues when they come along. That's what we strive for anyway!

Here is that screenshot, I hope it's viewable.

Loopy Lisa · Guru

Hi folks,

No, I'm not on Riba which is why I am wondering if its possible. I let my husband read the side-effects and decided not to (the side effects lists put me off). Maybe its just low blood pressure then. I kind of thought I may have, as I have a resting heart beat of 70 (my husbands is 56) and 87 - 60, tired and slightly dizzy when standing up fast. Saying that, drugs and minor infections can cause some fatigue. I just checked my what my next test is, and its ALAT, ASAT, bilirubine total and blood count. I guess that will reveal all.

I am not worried, as I will eat some salty food today. I'm always being told to up my salt intake so it is probably that. I just hate the taste of salt, yukkk!

I actually don't feel ill or anything, and after trying Interferon and Riba, its a breeze. I am Riba intolerant as it sent me anemic within 3 weeks with Interferon boosting it. My Doctor wouldn't allow me back on it even though I asked.

I was just wondering if it is possible as I didn't think it was on these drugs.

I agree though Winfrey, there is always a possibility of psychosomatic symptoms which is why I never read the list.

Anyway, its nothing major, like I said, I feel pretty normal just low BP which I have often anyway. x

Winfrey50 · Member

Yeah, I'm 12 weeks into all three Dak, Sol, Rib......little trouble with the RIBA, tired, itchy.....but I don't think I'd even feel the other two on their own.......and, truth be told, for me, there is some hype involved with the Riba sides......Every drug tells you about the worst possible sides......from what I have read, about 20% of RIBA users become anemic.....most are cirrhotic...like me.....but I have gone to work, and carried on, dropping 1200 mgs of RIBA per day.......But I can't say enough about this......I drink one gallon of water every single day......you likely don't need that much, but I'm sure it helps. I drink a green smoothie every day......I try to exercise a little each week, and I get as much rest as I can.....Tired with a touch of brain fog......I see that the people on here that know a lot more than me talk of "tough" side effects from RIBA......Good people, so I believe it complete.....but you cannot take away the fact that some (SOME) of it is mental.......Don't give side effects thought, eat and drink right and move through the treatmen.......I'm starting to feel dragged down.....that's true.......But to save my life.......Fair trade

-- Edited by Winfrey50 on Tuesday 12th of July 2016 11:54:09 PM

Linuxter · Guru

Hi Lisa,

Without doing some research I'm not sure of the common side effects, if any, of Dak/Sov

I don't think we see anemia with this drug combo. I thought it was relatively Side Effect-Free (hopefully someone else on Dak/Sov will chime in here). Maybe Syd knows more. Or surly Canuck has read the data on it.

In the mean time all I can really recommend is to read the literature that you received from the Pharmacy re: Side Effects. I know, not much help, right?

Lisa ...

Are you doing Ribavirin ... ??

Now Riba will cause some anemia, it usually takes a while for it to manifest itself, i think I may have begun to experience some tiredness and some feeling faint when standing up too fast but it was a little farther down the road, 5-6 weeks I think. What I found is side effects on Riba ebb'd and flow'd a bit ... I'd be feeling one thing or another for a couple of days then that's gone and I was feeling something else. That's all from Riba.

Dave

-- Edited by Linuxter on Tuesday 12th of July 2016 11:29:43 PM

Loopy Lisa · Guru

Hi Dave,

Thank you, yes I suspected as much, I see her soon as I'm nearly through the first bottle.

One thing I'm wondering about has anyone become anemic on this combo? I have symptoms of low blood pressure - I have this a lot naturally and tend to get anemic easily with the right conditions. I just took a home test and I am on the low side - I get dizzy standing up too fast etc. I was normal before treatment so I'm wondering if I am beginning to become anemic? It would explain why I had a panic attack as well as I get them when oxygen levels are low.

Has anyone else reported this on here?

Cheers,

L

Linuxter · Guru

Hi Libby and Lisa,

Good to hear from you both!

Libby, I know how stressful getting meds on time can be. I'm sorry to hear that they changed pharmacies, what a pain ... but it sounds like you stuck with it and got straightened out, Good Job!

I think you'll find that it gets easier as you go, for one you know more of what to expect and two, you get closer to being cured and may even start to feel a bit better. Our thoughts are with you, keep up with the water and you'll do very well.

Lisa, good that you're doing well in general, your body is fighting battles on many fronts right now, do keep your doctor(s) informed of the infections, sorry to hear about the infections, I think it's fairly common for these to crop up. In addition to taking any meds the doc may Rx for those, do be sure you are eating well (lots of greens, help remove the toxins) and lots of water helps helps flush the system and keep your system in top condition.

Wishing you both well,

Dave

Loopy Lisa · Guru

Hey Libby,

Good to hear all is well. I have also phoned ahead, I hit 3 weeks yesterday. I don't have any side affects now apart from needing to nap now in the afternoons. I have started picking up infections easily now though, Just had an eye infection and my ear is playing up. But nothing really major. It is going pretty fast, I can't believe I'm 6 days away from a new bottle. :D

I can understand re-work, its one of those things. You will be cured so no need.

Glad ur doing good!! x

Libby999 · Member

Today was day 18. Figured I would check in let everyone know how it is going. I just called in my refill today. What a run around that was...LOL They told me to call 10 days before. When I called they told me they need to transfer my refills to another special pharmacy per my insurance company. I got it squared away and next shipment will arrive on Friday. Phew.

Feeling better tummy seems to be settling down and not as tired...Woo Hoo.... Had a long weekend and got plenty of rest and water!

Hope all is going good Lisa. Answer to your question, no the people at work do not know I am on treatment. Wanted to save myself the grief on what and why

Will continue to update.

Libby

Loopy Lisa · Guru

Hey Libby,

Indeed it is, it is rather fascinating also. I'm sorry you feel tired, I kind of felt tired all the time before treatment, so it feels like I have more energy. Have as many naps as you need, naps are always good regardless. Does your work know you are on treatment? I feel really normal apart from this slight head cold feeling, but it could be I just have a mild cold. Either way, it is now nearly two weeks for us both, only 10 to go.

I am sorry about your tummy problems, it must be rather bad to stay off work. If it gets worse pop to your GP, maybe there is something they can do to settle it down?

Have a great weekend too, the sun is finally shining so I think its time for some outdoor activities! x

Libby999 · Member

Hi Lisa,

Glad to hear you didn't get the family cold. I stayed home sick from work yesterday, stomach was not feeling good. Would you believe I got up to go to work got this morning and the battery was dead in the car....Ugh....I did get a ride to work...

I am the opposite always hungry and very tired. I work my nine hour day and can barely stay awake. At least I sleep good every night, although I can't get up in the morning.... Almost like I have a hangover...LOL. Weird how we both are feeling different. I don't feel foggy, but tired.

I am hoping I can have Hep free party when my twelve weeks are done. Your invited! smile What better yet then to have two Hep free attendees....

Have a great weekend!

Libby

Loopy Lisa · Guru

Fair play.

I have been eating good again, so it was only temporary.

Everyone in my home has a bad cold, so I assume I felt that rather than the drugs, funny enough, I'm the only one that hasn't become really sick.

I did a driving lesson today, I feel a bit drugged but was careful, How do you all drive on these drugs? Its not a bad feeling, just I can feel there is something in me.

Not sure about waiting until after treatment though, it is a busy city I had to drive through and I am a bit nervous....

JimmyK · Guru

Greetings,

With regard to some of those store bought Shakes.

While on my last treatment Plan, I was losing weight quickly. Added one of those shakes that as an example only now contains something like...

9 grams of protein
26 essential vitamins and minerals, including antioxidants
220 nutritious calories
25% of the daily value of B vitamins to support brain health

Ok I'm not saying anything other than I had a breakthrough while on treatment.

We know certain ingredients should not be mixed with certain DAA's. "Stop all Herbal whatsoever" comes to mind.

Some of these warnings are based on proven studied data. That is as of TODAY. These are all new protocols and what they know today will only expand down the road.

Hopefully it won't end up in a day time commercial that goes kind of like,

"Did you take XXX and later have your left foot fall off while riding a Motorcycle? If so you may be entitled to compensation. Please call 1-800- IGO THAD bla bla bla bla bla.."

At this point I would not add anything in the way of a commercial supplement without clearing with a knowledgeable Doctor. Too many unknowns.

That's my story and I am sticking to it.

JimmyK

Loopy Lisa · Guru

Hey all,

Isn't it strange how it affects us both Libby. Perhaps climate has something to do with it. Here it is raining all the time it seems, so heat can be part of the problem. I know what you mean re-water. I had a slight headache yesterday because its hard to keep drinking water when all I really want is a warm tea and a caffine high.

Thanks all re-food. I have got some protein shakes I am drinking to boost my overall calorie intake, I know it will even out. I think some of it is due to calming down on exercise as well. I don't feel any energy difference, but quiet foggy in parts of the day. Sleep is slightly altered as well. Before when I slept it was like a coma state, nothing could wake me, now I seem to be sleeping much lighter and every noise wakes me. Weird, but its not bothering me at all. When I'm busy I really forget about the meds, its more when I relax I suddenly notice this or that. I am still doing dandy tbh, just minor things.

I think food is a great stress releaser Libby, perhaps food has a feel good factor for you. I wouldn't worry about it, it is only under 11 weeks more. I hope your tummy issues relieve though, I had so many before, it seems to have evened them out, at least for now. But again, that could also be the heat as well.

I look forward to hearing about your results. My blood draw in under 3 weeks now, but only for liver stats and not VL.

Keep on going, we are travelling quiet fast already on route. :D x

wendyo · Guru

Libby and Lisa are trucking right along and glad to hear from you both.

Libby nap when you need, I know what you mean about that feeling.

Lisa try small meals maybe some scrambled eggs? I do like Tig's idea of protein shakes or the store bought drinks.

Linuxter · Guru

Hi Libby,

Sounds like time is rolling right along with your Tx, keep up with the water and watch that heat.

A little excercise is wise and good but I'd take it easy and walk in the evening or early mornings to avoid the heat and hydrate while doing any exercise. Cocoanut water or a half/ half mixture of sports drink/ water may help you feel a little better overall (some electtolites). JimmyK recommends cocoanut water and cranberry juice, I tried it and it's refreshing and helps.

Best of luck in all,

Dave

Libby999 · Member

Hi everyone. Thought I would check in. It has been 11 days of treatment and feeling ok. Not great but ok. Lisa, I have belly issues too and fatigue (sometimes I feel like someone sucked the life out of me when I'm at work). I am still hungry, but struggling to intake enough water. No headaches. Sure hope this is working. I get blood drawn at 3 weeks (July 11) and see the doctor in 4 weeks. I will post my results when I receive them. I will get the results online before I go to doctor and will post then.

Lisa, Glad to hear you are having some positive issues clear up. You mentioned lose of appetite, I feel like mine increased...Not what I wanted...lol I try to walk a mile or two every night, but I feel so tired that it usually only winds up being a mile. Plus the 90 plus degrees isn't making the walking any easier.

Syd and Lisa I am glad to be part of the "dacia gals".

Have a good night, feel well.

Libby

Tig · Admin

Lisa,

Sounds like things are going well overall, that's excellent! The skin improvements must be nice and the symptom relief from your IBS is fantastic news. I do hope that continues to last forever!

I'm curious, if you're not able to eat, would you consider the nutrition shakes/drinks? They come in many brands here in the States, I'm sure you must have something similar. Ask your doctor if you could have a couple of those on the days you're not able to eat. They're nutritionally complete, protein, carbs, vitamins, etc, etc. A half kilo loss isn't much to worry about, but you don't want to lose too much. Since you're hydrating properly, you're not dehydrating which is where a lot of early weight loss stems from. Of course you can always check out Dave's Green Smoothie Ranch recipe bonanza for some good, healthy ideas too. I hope you get to feeling better soon!

Loopy Lisa · Guru

Canuck wrote:
Hey Lisa, Libby and Syd,
Glad to hear things are going full-forward only for our dacla gals.
Libby, a lot of us can relate to your taken-by-surprize naps!
Lisa, I hope the south-winds have stopped a-blowing.
Lisa, I wasn't sure which thread you use the most, so will just put this here ... you and Pablo had been discussing feeling lonely, you being a 3b, and he being a 4. I can't find that post now, but I did try to comfort Pablo that he was not alone, as he had webtomass for company (another 4) who was also on almost the same regime as Pablo was! Seems to me there is another 4 around here too, but I can't find it. And there was one person who's preliminary "inconclusive" typing was both 1 AND 4! And a very interesting conversation ensued with Mallani on mixed types and subtypes, and likelyhood of being both 1 & 4!
Zlikster, as another one of us 3's, has some curious (to me) lettering in his sig - it reads GT3 "dg" - wonder what his subtype is?? There are a couple references to 3b's on the site - but older ones ... such as "bokeygirl" a preliminary GT3B?, and I think there was a "hill418" who had a preliminary3b subtype?, and as well there is " iffithekig " (from older posts). I think "iffithekig" said she was sure she was a 3b. But ALL of us 3's (in general), and there are quite a few of us 3's on this site, WE will ALL gladly keep you company, it will be an honour to do so. You will never be alone!!
I found the posts from Mallani about mixed types and subtypes (1/4's, and co-1a/3b's), etc., interesting ... can be found by going to "On Treatment" (about page 10), "Genotypes" - and look for "hill418".
Also, tig posted really good GT info in response to "bokeygirl", but that was way back in 2014? (can be searched up by "bokeygirl").
I am thankful, everyday, for these new daa's, like dac! C.

Hey Canuck,

What a sweetie you are....I don't feel so much the lone sheep now :D Zlikster was an "a" I believe.

I will have a look through older threads tomorrow it is already 1 am here and just coming up to bedtime. :D

Since tomorrow is my first week, I'd thought I'd give an update on how I'm doing. :)

Over all great, a few positives and some minus, but I am getting used to these medications. :D

Negatives:

I have lost already half a kilo because my appetite is reduced. I actually realized today, not eating enough is actually giving my a slight flu like feeling in my head and a slight hot flushed feeling even drinking buckets of water, that started two days ago. So, food is as important as water for me, eating more improved that feeling through the day. It is only very mild, nothing that would stop my daily life, just a slight foggy head feeling like a start of a flu. Unless I am getting the flu lol.

Positive:

My skin is improving very fast, eczema has gone from my face, nearly on my hands and no redness. My tummy is in full working order, IBS problems I've had for years have virtually disappeared and regular as clock and normal stools. The best is no pain. No tummy or muscle aches. I have no issues taking the pills, no anxiety. I am getting a slightly dry mouth but drinking more water helps that. I do know it takes a couple of weeks to adjust, so all in all pretty fantastic I'd say. Tomorrow is a week and its gone fast.

How are you other ladies doing? :D

A thanks for all the hard work Canuck, that was so thoughtful and touching. X

Canuck · Guru

Hey Lisa, Libby and Syd,

Glad to hear things are going full-forward only for our dacla gals.

Libby, a lot of us can relate to your taken-by-surprize naps!

Lisa, I hope the south-winds have stopped a-blowing.

Lisa, I wasn't sure which thread you use the most, so will just put this here ... you and Pablo had been discussing feeling lonely, you being a 3b, and he being a 4. I can't find that post now, but I did try to comfort Pablo that he was not alone, as he had webtomass for company (another 4) who was also on almost the same regime as Pablo was! Seems to me there is another 4 around here too, but I can't find it. And there was one person who's preliminary "inconclusive" typing was both 1 AND 4! And a very interesting conversation ensued with Mallani on mixed types and subtypes, and likelyhood of being both 1 & 4!

Zlikster, as another one of us 3's, has some curious (to me) lettering in his sig - it reads GT3 "dg" - wonder what his subtype is?? There are a couple references to 3b's on the site - but older ones ... such as "bokeygirl" a preliminary GT3B?, and I think there was a "hill418" who had a preliminary3b subtype?, and as well there is " iffithekig " (from older posts). I think "iffithekig" said she was sure she was a 3b. But ALL of us 3's (in general), and there are quite a few of us 3's on this site, WE will ALL gladly keep you company, it will be an honour to do so. You will never be alone!!

I found the posts from Mallani about mixed types and subtypes (1/4's, and co-1a/3b's), etc., interesting ... can be found by going to "On Treatment" (about page 10), "Genotypes" - and look for "hill418".

Also, tig posted really good GT info in response to "bokeygirl", but that was way back in 2014? (can be searched up by "bokeygirl").

I am thankful, everyday, for these new daa's, like dac! smile C.

Sydhanrahan · Guru

So pleased it's all going well for you Libby and Lisa.

Syd

Loopy Lisa · Guru

Hi Libby,

Good to hear from you. All is going well thank you. My only gripe is I am starting to blow more air than a whale hole lol! I hope that passes soon, literally! That could be my diet though and not the pills. :D

I'm still drinking coffee, but I am washing it down with a gallon of water after, and no headache yet. It is really non eventful so far, and I'm already on day 3. I see you are doing great also, I think this is going to be a breeze for us. :D x

Linuxter · Guru

Hi Libby,

WTG, but the WATER is important ... so do what you have to to drink more.

I carry a water bottle with me everywhere, all the time so it's a constant reminder.

Very glad to hear that it's going well, you got this ... smile

Dave

robertsamx · Guru

Hi Libby, Glad to see your doing well. 5 down and before you know it you will be counting down 5-4-3-2-1- DONE. Keep us posted on your blood work. RC

DRINK YOUR WATER GIRL

Libby999 · Member

Thought I would check in today. Today was day #5, no major problems. I had a headache today, but that is my own fault only had 3 cups of coffee and 16 oz of water. Also, the last two days when I get home from work at 5:30 I put the News on TV and look at the clock and it is 7 pm. Weird I must be tired and falling asleep in my chair....LOL I did manage to get up off the couch this evening and do a 1 1/2 mile walk with the dog.

Can't wait to beat this and put it behind me. Pill #6 coming soon

Lisa - I hope everything is going well for you. I know this is a long time coming for you too! Think today was day #2 for you.

Loopy Lisa · Guru

Pablito wrote:
Lisa - wishing you luck for tomorrow...I believe that's when you start your sof/dac.
Pablo

Hey Pablo,

Thank you, yes tomorrow is the day, I was so tempted to take them today, but its all arranged from the 21st with the hospital. I actually can't wait any more lol, I really want to start. :P

Hi Libby, it is so great to hear you are doing fine so far, I am not going to be far behind you. The coffee pot is also my little place as I also need my morning coffee.

This is so exciting, I am so glad fish you are UND, this is such a wonderful time in Hep C history for all of us. :D x

Pablito · Senior Member

Lisa - wishing you luck for tomorrow...I believe that's when you start your sof/dac.

Pablo

Canuck · Guru

Libby,

See how well BCFISH12 has responded to his sof/dac?! Und at 4 weeks!

BCfish, very glad you updated us here. You mentioned prior, on another thread, that you would be getting another VL drawn, perhaps on week 12 (out of your 24 week course)?? This draw should be soon, any day now? - please do keep us posted. So glad you feel OK.

So nice to meet, and see so many of us 3's, doing well on the newer regimes! smile C.

Tig · Admin

Hi Libby,

The first week or two will be when you experience some differences from these medications. They're in a major battle with a major adversary, so your body is adjusting to the fight and you will ultimately win the battle. If you're not having any problems other than some minor stuff, you're going to do well. Just keep on top of the water intake, I can't stress that enough! The days you may start to feel more fatigue or a headache/body ache, it's a signal that you need more water. Some think drinking a lot of water before bed is a bad idea, well I can tell you that your body demands more water on these medications and you may not even need to get up to pee. Even if you do, it's going to be better for you all the way around. So drink up!! You're doing great and I'm glad you've got everything set up by the most important appliance in the house, the coffee pot!! Smart thinking!! Have a great week....

Libby999 · Member

Day two of meds and no side effects other then some anxiety last night (probably just me and not the meds). Feel good can't wait to be free

BC- Hope I didn't need to go longer then the 12 weeks. I have had this so long, they are only doing 12 weeks. Congrats on your recent undetected lab work. Glad to here you are having no side effects.

I still am not sure about the Fibroscan can't find the paperwork. I can find after I did the blood work they came up with F1 and I can find an abdominal ultrasound, but nothing with just a number rating. I will keep looking.

Tig. I did set my alarm for the weekend (good idea). During the week i'm up for work and in a routine. I never forgot my coffee in the morning so that is where they are. I enjoyed some Florida sun at the beach today:)

Happy Fathers Day!!!!

Libby

Linuxter · Guru

Hi BC,

Just wanted to say hi to another of my northern neighbours, sounds like you're well on your way to SVR.

Welcome to the forum, I look forward to hearing more from you as your Tx progresses.

Best of luck to you.

Wishing you Well,

Dave

bcfish12 · Member

Hi Libby, I am G3a just finishing my 12th week was undetected at 4 weeks. I am going 24 weeks because of my cirrhosis . Had no issues with side effects and it has not effected my work except in a positive way more focused not as achy less confusion. Drinking lots of water and eating healthier. You beat cancer this should be a walk in the park.

robertsamx · Guru

Good morning Libby. By now you have taken your first dose of freedom,How are you doing?Are you getting your water in? When you had your fibroscan the result would have been a number, do you recall what that is? The F1 is based on the number your fibroscan came back with. How long are you approved for treatment? Looking forward to seeing your LFT's go down. Hoping for a dramatic drop in your Viral load count as well. Are you having a 4 week blood draw? That will tell you a lot about your response to your R/X treatment drugs. Stay up-beat like you have been, the time will fly by and you will start feeling better soon. When your numbers crash your spirit lifts. Your in my thoughts Libby. RC

Tig · Admin

Good luck Libby!!! Don't forget to set an alarm so you don't forget to take your medication and at the same time each day. Get a refillable water bottle and carry it everywhere. If you have to, get one of those Fit Bit wrist watches that will remind you to drink that water on a regular basis. You can do this!

Tomorrow is the beginning of your new Hep C free future!

Libby999 · Member

Thank you for the well wishes Dave, Tig56, Cheddy and Wendy. Picked up meds today at Doctors office. Down the hatch they go in the morning. I am taking note that everyone agrees on keeping hydrated, something I always forget to do. I am also bad at remembering to take my meds, so I did get a pill organizer and put it by the coffee pot. I am going to have to log my water intake to make sure I force myself to stay hydrated at work.

I actually cant believe I got this medicine. I almost gave up knowing that my insurance would not want to pay for it. Glad I was persistent. I received help from both manufacturers...I go for lab work in 3 1/2 weeks and see Dr. in 4 weeks.

Have a great weekend.....

Libby

wendyo · Guru

Welcome from me too Libby. Lots of knowledge, support and laughter here. Don't be afraid to ask questions and share whats going on. We are with you and know how it feels. Lets kill this dragon!

wendy

Cheddy · Moderator

Greetings Miss Libby. Let me chime in on the welcome. You will find good help and genuine care here. Surprisingly, experienced strangers can understand you. Let us all know how it goes and we can let you know our experience and what has worked for us. Nobody's experience will represent you exactly. We are all different and response differently, but there is always someone here who will get the gist of what you may go through. One thing most of us agree on is that you will need an unusual amount of hydration and you should respect your need for rest and your right to wellness. Best of luck on your treatment.

Tig · Admin

Hi Libby,

Welcome! Looks like you have met several of your new forum family members already. You found a caring bunch of great friends and we'll be here for help and support all the way. If you have any questions don't hesitate to ask. Be sure to use the search function at the top and review the homepage index for references to tons of info.

You should do very well on this protocol and the side effects should be very mild. As Dave mentioned, your best friend on treatment is rest and adequate hydration. Stay compliant and set an alarm so you don't miss a dose. A pill container to keep track of your daily dose is another good idea. I'm glad you're here. Good luck!

Linuxter · Guru

Hi Libby,

Welcome to the forum, we're glad that you are here!

Nothing to add really except that when you start taking your meds, be sure to drink 3-4 liters of water per day.

It not only helps the meds work better, it helps keep from getting dehydrated, it's an important ingredient in Tx.

Wishing you the best,

Dave

Libby999 · Member

Thank you everyone for your input.

RC. Thank you for all info I did have a Fibroscan and it said F1. I was a little worried on the accuracy because I have had this disease a long time. It is good to see if this treatment doesn't work there will be more to try. I will update my Bio to reflect the work Fibroscan. I got worried and had to look up what I had done, could not remember....LOL I think I am losing my mind!

Lisa. It is good to hear there will not be many side effects. We will be going through treatment at the same time and can compare notes..LOLl I have read a lot of people posting about the water thing. I will have to force myself to drink more water at work. After reading everything this should be easy compared to some of the other treatment people have done. I will let you know on Monday how I am feeling. It sounds like it will be fine. That is very interesting that women have less damage then men, due to our estrogen levels. Good luck to you Lisa, we can do this!!!!

Canuck. Yes Fibroscan was done and Score was F1. My treatment was going to be for the 12 weeks based on my test results. I was very frustrated when my insurance denied me they want me to try the Peg/Riba/Sovaldi meds. I declined and filed an appeal, they finally gave in, I think the manufacturer helped too because I had a large out of pocket to pay. I find it hard to believe I am only F1 after all the meds for my Cancer. You would think that would have destroyed my liver. I must be a cat with 9 lives...I am very excited and can't want for this to be gone. I have been cancer free for 8 years and hope the same for my Hep C!!!

Thank you everyone!!

I am very excited to start Saturday.

Libby

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