Yes. Unlike the factors which are beyond a person’s control, there are some variables that a person with chronic hepatitis B or C does have control over that can influence his or her response to therapy.
Alcohol use is one such variable. Alcohol is a potent liver toxin and can induce HBV and HCV to replicate. Therefore, total abstinence from alcohol consumption is recommended for people with chronic hepatitis B and C, especially those undergoing therapy.
People with chronic hepatitis B or C who become infected with the hepatitis A virus (HAV) have been found to suffer from a particularly severe, and sometimes fatal, course of infection. Therefore, everyone with chronic hepatitis B or C should receive the vaccination against HAV if they have not already been exposed to this virus. Similarly, people with HCV should also be vaccinated against HBV if not already exposed.
It has been shown that marijuana use may decrease the effectiveness of interferon therapy and may inhibit the body’s own natural production of interferon. Therefore, it is advisable for people with chronic hepatitis B or C to avoid marijuana. Also, recent evidence has shown that people with HCV who smoke marijuana are more likely to have a progressive course of disease and more liver scarring, than people who do not use marijuana.
Immunosuppressed conditions, such as occurs when one is undergoing treatment with corticosteroids (for example, prednisone, medrol), may cause activation of HBV and/or HCV. Therefore, unless absolutely required, people with HBV or HCV should avoid these types of medications when other treatment options exist.
Finally, it has been shown that fat deposits in the liver are unhealthy, and may decrease response rates to antiviral therapy. Therefore, it is prudent for all individuals, especially those who are overweight, maintain a normal weight through exercise and a healthy diet.
