A diagnosis of hepatitis B can be very upsetting, but the good news is that most people with chronic hepatitis B should expect to live a long and healthy life. Although there is an increased risk for developing serious liver disease later in life, there are good treatments available now that can control the virus and prevent future complications.

However, not every person with chronic hepatitis B needs to be on medication. Talk to your doctor in order to better understand the pros and cons of any treatment option. Most importantly, make sure that you see a liver specialist or a doctor knowledgeable about hepatitis B on a regular basis to protect your health.

Chronic hepatitis B is a condition that should be managed by a knowledgeable physician, just like high blood pressure or diabetes. A doctor will evaluate your physical health, order blood tests to see how active the virus is and whether there is any liver damage, and conduct liver cancer screening tests since early detection of any problem will allow for prompt intervention.

Talk to your doctor, or visit the Hepatitis B Foundation website for more information about the management and treatment of chronic hepatitis B infections.

Approved HBV Drugs in the United States

Interferon Alpha is given by injection several times a week for six months to a year, or sometimes longer. The drug can cause side effects such as flu-like symptoms, depression, and headaches. Approved 1991 and available for both children and adults.

Pegylated Interferon is given by injection once a week usually for six months to a year. The drug can cause side effects such as flu-like symptoms and depression. Approved May 2005 and available only for adults.

Lamivudine is a pill that is taken once a day, with few side effects, for at least one year or longer. Approved 1998 and available for both children and adults.

Adefovir Dipivoxil is a pill taken once a day, with few side effects, for at least one year or longer. Approved September 2002 for adults. Pediatric clinical trials are in progress.

Entecavir is a pill taken once a day, with few side effects, for at least one year or longer. Approved April 2005 for adults. Pediatric clinical trials are in progress.

Telbivudine is a pill taken once a day, with few side effects, for at least one year or longer. Approved October 2006 for adults.

Tenofovir is a pill taken once a day, with few side effects, for at least one year or longer. Approved August 2008 for adults.

Source: Hepatitis B Foundation Drug Watch