Treating Hepatitis B (HBV)

Acute hepatitis B symptoms usually go away on their own. You can be treated for hepatitis B, but there is very rarely a cure. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for follow-up to be sure the virus is gone from your blood. If you develop long-term (chronic) hepatitis B, treatment is aimed at reducing liver damage. Without treatment, chronic hepatitis B can lead to cancer. Your provider may tell you to follow these guidelines:

Avoid most over-the-counter pain medicines

Some medicines can be harmful to your liver. Do not take aspirin, ibuprofen (Motrin), or naproxen. If taking acetaminophen (Tylenol), do not take more than 2 grams a day. Always ask your provider before taking any medicines.

Do not drink alcohol

Alcohol use can be further damaging to your liver.

Eat a balanced diet

A diet low in fat, high in fiber and full of fresh fruits and vegetables helps you stay healthy.

Keep your appointments

Going to scheduled checkups with your healthcare provider helps keep a close watch on your liver. If you are pregnant, your provider will check for hepatitis B. He or she will discuss treatment to reduce the chance you will pass the disease to your baby.

Get treatment as advised by your provider

Usually, medicine is not used to treat an acute infection. For chronic hepatitis B your healthcare provider will most likely give you medicine. The medicines are called antiviral drugs. Your provider will monitor your infection to see if it is getting worse. He or she will also watch to see if you have any liver damage. Sometimes the medicines must be taken for years.

Use a condom when having sex

HBV is a sexually transmitted disease. This means it can be passed on to other people through sex. Use a condom during sex to avoid passing the disease to someone else. Also, let your partner know you have hepatitis B. HBV can also be transmitted through drug use by sharing needles, straws and other drug equipment. The disease is preventable by getting a vaccine.