Research & Treatment News
October 27, 2010
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By engineering mice livers to contain enough human cells, researchers at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies are making progress in the quest to find better therapeutic solutions for many ailments, including Hepatitis C.
Homo musculus: Researchers Create a "Humanized" Mouse for Liver Disease Studies
Long-awaited breakthroughs in developing preclinical animal models are signaling a new era for liver-targeted viruses and beyond
By Jessica Wapner October 21, 2010
Chronic infection with malaria and hepatitis B and C occurring in more than 800 million people worldwide leads to at least 1.5 million deaths yearly. Although significant strides have been made in treatment and vaccination for these liver-based diseases, shortfalls remain. Progress has been stymied for several reasons, chief among them is the lack of an effective research model. Now, advances in mouse model creation are conspiring to usher in a new era in the research and treatment of these life-threatening maladies, and possibly many others.
Continue reading this entire article:
http://www.scientificamerican.com/article.cfm?id=homo-musculus-researchers-create
Posted by Editors at 3:37 PM --- Printer-friendly version
October 25, 2010
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Helping to bring a new level of understanding to the Hepatitis C virus (HCV), a University of Alberta study found that this infection can affect neural cells. Besides helping explain some common Hepatitis C symptoms, these findings could pave the way for a new frontier in HCV treatment.
Hepatitis C damages brain cells
October 20, 2010
by Catherine Scott, News Staff
University of Alberta virologists have recently confirmed that the hepatitis C virus (HCV), commonly known as a disease that affects the liver, also adversely affects certain cells in the brain.
Working with a team of virologists, Dr. Christopher Power and Dr. Pornpun Vivithanaporn exposed an hepatitis C protein to glial cells, the structural cells of the brain, and discovered that it is possible to infect them. The infected cells also release toxic factors that can potentially damage neurons.
Continue reading this entire article:
http://thegatewayonline.ca/articles/news/2010/10/20/hepatitis-c-damages-brain-cells
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October 22, 2010
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November is National Diabetes Awareness Month. By analyzing relevant research, it appears that diabetes prevention efforts may protect Hepatitis C previous non-responders from developing liver cancer.
by Nicole Cutler, L.Ac.
If chronic Hepatitis C infection is resistant to treatment and escalates in severity, many serious health conditions can result. Referred to as end stage liver disease, this advanced level of illness is typically characterized by cirrhosis (the permanent hardening and shrinking of the liver), liver failure (where the liver can no longer function) or hepatocellular carcinoma (the most common kind of liver cancer). However, careful evaluation of the latest research indicates that diabetes mellitus is likely a crucial intermediate link between Hepatitis C and one of the grave outcomes of end stage liver disease.
The following three studies help clarify the relationship between Hepatitis C, diabetes mellitus and hepatocellular carcinoma:
1. In light of the growing mass of evidence suggesting that diabetes mellitus could be to blame for the worsening of Hepatitis C infection, Dutch researchers aimed to determine the risk of liver cancer among those with both diabetes mellitus and advanced Hepatitis C. As published in the June 2008 edition of Hepatology, they found that for those with both chronic Hepatitis C and advanced cirrhosis, diabetes mellitus increased the risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma.
2. Along the same lines, findings published in the March 2009 edition of the journal Hepatology set out to quantify how a successful Hepatitis C treatment outcome translates into a diabetes mellitus diagnosis. Understood as the inability to detect any Hepatitis C virus genetic material six months after therapy ends, a sustained virological response is the current definition of a successful treatment outcome. Conducted by Japanese researchers from Toranomon Hospital in Tokyo, this study indicated that achieving a sustained virological response to Hepatitis C interferon treatment causes a two-thirds reduction in the risk of developing adult-onset diabetes mellitus.
3. Published in the October 2010 edition of the American Journal of Medicine, the same Japanese team from Tokyo studied diabetes mellitus' impact on the development of liver cancer in those treated for Hepatitis C with interferon therapy. The results of this study are particularly meaningful because it was relatively large and lengthy - with more than 2,000 participants followed for an average of 6.7 years. The key findings were as follows:
· The rates of liver cancer in diabetics were significantly higher than those of non-diabetics. Twelve years following interferon treatment, the rates for diabetics who developed hepatocellular carcinoma were 24.4 percent - compared to 5.6 percent in non-diabetics.
· In patients who achieved a sustained virologic response to interferon therapy, having diabetes had no significant effect on developing liver cancer.
· In patients who did not achieve a sustained virologic resonse to interferon therapy, significantly more diabetics than non-diabetics developed liver cancer.
The authors concluded that for those who are non-responders (did not achieve a sustained virologic response) to Hepatitis C treatment, diabetes mellitus greatly raises the risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma.
The overall arching goal in all of these analyses is to determine the best strategy for preventing liver cancer. Hepatocellular carcinoma is a challenging diagnosis, frequently leading to fatality within a couple of years. Typical advice for preventing liver cancer involves vaccinating against Hepatitis A and B, promptly treating viral hepatitis and avoiding alcohol. However, the research described above clearly implies that preventing diabetes mellitus is another wise way to protect from hepatocellular carcinoma.
According to the American Diabetes Association, you can prevent or delay the development of adult onset diabetes through a healthy lifestyle. With practices such as improving diet, increasing physical activity level and maintaining a healthy weight, the risk of being diagnosed with diabetes mellitus will lessen. Although such lifestyle practices are beneficial to just about anyone desiring health, the research indicates that it is especially important for Hepatitis C interferon therapy non-responders - as this group of people appear to be at the highest risk for developing adult onset diabetes and, eventually, hepatocellular carcinoma.
References:
http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/282814-overview, Hepatic Carcinoma, Primary, Keith E. Stuart, MD, Retrieved October 14, 2010, Medscape, 2010.
http://www.diabetes.org/diabetes-basics/prevention/, Prevention, Retrieved October 14, 2010, American Diabetes Association, 2010.
http://www.hcvadvocate.org/hcsp/articles/rellosa.html, Hepatocellular Carcinoma, Retrieved October 14, 2010, Isabelita Cordoba-Rellosa, MD, Retrieved October 14, 2010, Hepatitis C Support Project, 2010.
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/153591.php, What Is The Relationship Between Hepatocellular Carcinoma And Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus?, Retrieved October 12, 2010, MediLexicon International Ltd., 2010.
http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/720925, Diabetes Is Leading Cause of Attributable Cases of Hepatocellular Carcinoma, Nick Mulcahy, Retrieved October 12, 2010, WebMD LLC, 2010.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18506898, Increased risk of hepatocellular carcinoma among patients with hepatitis C cirrhosis and diabetes mellitus, Veldt BJ, et al, Retrieved October 12, 2010, Hepatology, October 2008.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19127513, Sustained virological response reduces incidence of onset of type 2 diabetes in chronic hepatitis C, Arase Y, et al, Hepatology, March 2009.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20920698, Diabetes enhances hepatocarcinogenesis in noncirrhotic, interferon-treated hepatitis C patients, Kawamura Y, et al, The American Journal of Medicine, October 2010.
Posted by Editors at 11:21 AM --- Printer-friendly version
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Intercell's investigational, therapeutic Hepatitis C vaccine, IC41, and Romark's antiviral drug, nitazoxanide, will be studied together to see if their effectiveness at fighting Hepatitis C can top the current standard of treatment - pegylated interferon and ribavirin.
Intercell and Romark Join Forces in Combining Therapies Against Hepatitis C
-- The companies are designing a treatment that combines Intercell's investigational Hepatitis C vaccine, IC41, with Romark's antiviral drug, nitazoxanide.
-- A combination Phase II trial is expected to start in H1/2011.
-- The trial will be sponsored by Romark. Intercell will provide the vaccine candidate IC41.
VIENNA, Oct. 21 /PRNewswire/ -- Intercell AG (VSE; "ICLL") and Romark Laboratories L.C. today announced plans to commence clinical trials of Intercell's investigational therapeutic Hepatitis C virus (HCV) vaccine, IC41, in combination with Romark's antiviral drug, nitazoxanide, during the first half of 2011.
Intercell's vaccine candidate has demonstrated a sustained reduction of viral load in chronic Hepatitis C (CHC) patients in a Phase II proof-of-concept trial. Nitazoxanide is an oral therapy that targets host cell factors involved in HCV replication and is not associated with viral mutations conferring resistance. Nitazoxanide has been shown to induce sustained virologic response as monotherapy in some patients chronically infected with HCV.
Continue reading this entire article:
http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/intercell-and-romark-join-forces-in-combining-therapies-against-hepatitis-c-105416213.html
Posted by Editors at 9:18 AM --- Printer-friendly version
October 21, 2010
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A small study found that combining two oral drugs (not including interferon or ribavirin) demonstrated potential in treating Hepatitis C without many serious adverse events.
Combination of Two Oral Drugs Shows Promise for HCV in Small Study
By: Denise Napoli, Internal Medicine News Digital Network
10/14/10
A combination of two oral drugs for reducing viral load in hepatitis C patients had good safety and tolerability in a small, phase I study.
The finding, published online Oct. 15 in the Lancet, points the way toward an alternative to the current standard of care - subcutaneous pegylated interferon-alfa plus oral ribavirin - which has limited tolerability and efficacy.
The novel therapies that were tested in this study are RG7128, a nucleoside polymerase inhibitor, and danoprevir, a protease inhibitor, wrote Dr. Edward J. Gane of Auckland (New Zealand) Clinical Studies Ltd., an early-phase clinical pharmacology unit, and his colleagues.
Continue reading this entire article:
http://www.internalmedicinenews.com/news/infectious-diseases/single-article/combination-of-two-oral-drugs-shows-promise-for-hcv-in-small-study/0d5919a672.html
Posted by Editors at 9:19 AM --- Printer-friendly version
October 19, 2010
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Learn why eurythmy therapy, a component of anthroposophic medicine, may help those with Hepatitis C by delivering an active approach toward liver wellness.
by Nicole Cutler, L.Ac.
Millions of Americans are currently living with chronic Hepatitis C, a virus that can lead to end-stage liver disease. Until medical doctors and pharmaceutical companies create an effective vaccine and treatment for the Hepatitis C virus, those infected must navigate their way through this challenging diagnosis. By engaging in eurythmy therapy, people with Hepatitis C can take part in keeping their liver healthy and strong.
To mitigate prescribed antiviral medication's side effects and to gain some control over their wellness, a majority of individuals with Hepatitis C supplement their health care with alternative medical interventions. Although it is much more popular in Europe than in the states, anthroposophic medicine taps into a valuable concept that encourages recovering from Hepatitis C.
Complementary and Alternative Medicine
While there is little official documentation on the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) by persons with Hepatitis C specifically, there is some data from a survey published in 2002 on the use of CAM by persons who have chronic liver diseases (such as hepatitis, liver cancer, alcoholic liver disease or cirrhosis).
· A survey of 989 patients being treated for various liver diseases found that 39 percent used some form of "alternative therapy."
· Aside from herbal medicine (the most popular type of alternative therapy), self-prayer was listed as key to nearly half of those with chronic liver disease using CAM. Self-prayer is when an individual prays for himself; in contrast to intercessory prayer, in which an individual prays for others.
Self-Prayer
Self-prayer, an approach to wellness that does not require any medical expertise, is an interestingly popular choice among those with chronic liver disease. However fringe sounding self-prayer is, its practice represents a view most of us recognize as the truth; that we must take charge of our own health to truly heal. While self-prayer clearly has value, a visionary in the early part of the twentieth century devised a system of healing based on a similar premise - that healing requires a person to be actively involved in his or her own recovery.
Anthroposophy
Austrian scientist and philosopher Rudolf Steiner (1861-1925) refused to accept the contemporary scientific view of the body as a purely physical entity. From that conviction was born the doctrine of anthroposophy, a word he coined from the Greek words for "man" and "divine wisdom." Steiner believed in the uniqueness of each human being, and contended that health and well-being deteriorated without that belief.
Anthroposophic medicine is a holistic approach to medicine. While recognizing and incorporating modern medicine's knowledge and methodology, anthroposophic medicine goes further, adding knowledge of the laws of the living organism, the psyche and the spirit. In their acceptance of the multi-dimensional properties of human health, anthroposophic physicians expect patients to be involved in their own recovery. Utilized by anthroposophic physicians, one intervention that requires the patient to engage in active exercises is eurythmy therapy.
Eurythmy
Eurythmy is considered to be both a form of energy medicine and the art of visible speech and song. It gives expression to the silent gestures that underlie the sounds of speech and music, bringing them first into an inner soul movement, and then, simultaneously, into outer physical movement. Eurythmy forms a language that integrates sound and gesture in a seamless whole, drawing the intricacies of human anatomy and spirit into harmony. Unlike many of the other therapies in energy medicine, therapeutic eurythmy is not about passively receiving a therapy. Rather, participants actively give themselves their own energy medicine.
Published in the April 2007 edition of BMC Public Health, a German study looked at the impact of eurythmy therapy on people living with chronic disease. The authors bring our attention to the fact that many patients with chronic diseases use complementary therapies; however, patients usually take on a passive role. On the contrary, eurythmy therapy requires the patient to actively exercise with specific movements of his or her hands, feet or the whole body. After evaluating over 400 patients with chronic disease, the researchers concluded that those practicing eurythmy therapy exercises had long-term improvement of chronic disease symptoms and quality of life.
People with Hepatitis C in the U.S. would likely know more about eurythmy therapy if its popularity were to catch up with this therapy's progress in Europe. Of great help to those with Hepatitis C - or any chronic liver disease - the L movement is purported to stimulate the liver's functions, encourage blood and lymph movement and ease depression. Although a eurythmy therapist is required for learning how to properly perform this exercise, the following description of the L sound gives those interested an idea of what is involved:
· The L sound is the most liquid and flowing of all sounds.
· The arms are held out to the sides, at shoulder height, with the palms down.
· The arms move downwards and inwards, as if moving along the sides of a large ball.
· When they come together at the bottom of the arc, they are heavy, as if in gravity or darkness.
· They then overcome heaviness by lifting up through the central axis of the ball, like a rising fountain.
· The movement culminates when the hands come together at the top of the fountain and then unfold to the sides, open to the space above like an unfolding of grace.
Eurythmy therapy is presently provided by approximately 1,550 therapists in 31 countries worldwide. Half of these therapists work in Germany or Switzerland where many health insurance companies cover the cost. Although, a growing anthroposophic medicine movement in the U.S. has brought more eurythmy therapists to the states than ever before.
Eurythmy therapy includes the body, mind and spirit that is characteristic of many CAM therapies. In addition, it requires the patient to be actively involved in his or her own recovery. Because of these unique strengths, Steiner's art of visible speech and song is valuable to many living with chronic Hepatitis C who want to regain control over their liver's health.
References:
http://www.anthromed.org/Article.aspx?artpk=486, Therapeutic Eurythmy, Anne Cook, Retrieved October 1, 2009, AntrhoMed Library, 2009.
http://www.biomedcentral.com/1472-6882/7/10, Anthroposophic medical therapy in chronic disease: a four-year prospective cohort study, Harald J Hamre, et al, Retrieved October 1, 2009, BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, April 2007.
http://www.holistic.com/holistic/learning.nsf/title/Anthroposophic%20Medicine, Anthroposophic Medicine, Retrieved October 1, 2009, Holistic.com, 2009.
http://www.openwaldorf.com/eurythmy.html, Eurythmy, Retrieved October 2, 2009, OpenWaldorf.com, 2009.
http://www.paam.net/, What is Anthroposophic Medicine?, Retrieved October 1, 2009, Physicians' Association for Anthroposophic Medicine, 2009.
http://www.pinetreeclinic.com/anthro.htm, Therapeutic Eurythmy, Retrieved October 2, 2009, Pine Tree Clinic for Comprehensive Medicine, 2009.
http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=1868723, Eurythmy therapy in chronic disease: a four-year prospective cohort study, Harald J Hamre, et al, Retrieved October 1, 2009, BMC Public Health, April 2007.
http://www.thebody.com/content/art6823.html, Hepatitis C and Complementary and Alternative Medicine: 2003 Update, Retrieved October 1, 2009, The Body, May 2004.
Posted by Editors at 12:32 PM --- Printer-friendly version
October 15, 2010
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Thanks to a discovery that fat is involved in Hepatitis C replication, new therapies targeting inhibition of the implicated fat enzyme could successfully combat the Hepatitis C virus.
Fat Enzyme Link To Hepatitis C Identified
by Gopalan T on October 13, 2010
US scientists have identified a fat enzyme link to hepatitis C virus (HCV). This discovery may offer a new strategy for treating the infection.
Continue reading the entire article:
http://www.medindia.net/news/Fat-Enzyme-Link-To-Hepatitis-C-Identified-75297-1.htm
Posted by Editors at 12:23 PM --- Printer-friendly version
October 14, 2010
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By combining three immune strengthening approaches along with five natural ways to ease cold and flu symptoms, discover how those with Hepatitis C can safely get through this year's cold and flu season.
by Nicole Cutler, L.Ac.
The seasonal change from summer to autumn brings colorful leaves, fireplace coziness and a string of holidays; but it can also hail the unwelcome array of fevers, sneezing, congestion and coughing. Yes, the arrival of cooler temperatures and crisp air marks the official onset of cold and flu season. Unfortunately, those with chronic Hepatitis C often have a rougher time managing a cold or flu than those without liver disease. Although it may not be realistic to completely prevent getting sick, it is possible to reduce your chance of becoming really ill and curb cold and flu symptoms in a Hepatitis C-friendly way.
The biggest obstacle most people with Hepatitis C face during the cold and flu season is finding medications that are safe for their liver. Because the Hepatitis C virus continually incites liver inflammation that can lead to liver damage, it is important for affected individuals to avoid medications known to injure the liver.
A staple in the pharmaceutical arsenal for cold and flu symptoms, acetaminophen is a widely used over-the-counter pain reliever and fever reducer. As one of the leading causes of liver toxicity from an accidental overdose, acetaminophen-containing drugs warrant an additional level of caution for people with Hepatitis C. Unfortunately, acetaminophen is either the primary or auxiliary ingredient in a majority of medications for cold and flu. Read Acetaminophen Containing Drugs Pose Danger to Hepatitis C for a list of cold and flu medications that could be harmful to those with chronic Hepatitis C.
When it comes to mitigating the cold and flu season, the best offense is always a strong defense. By fortifying their immune system, many sail straight through to spring without getting terribly sick. An effective defense against germs is primarily accomplished by strengthening the immune system. The top three approaches for this include:
1. Hygiene - Washing your hands thoroughly and frequently helps get rid of germs acquired from everyday surfaces. Even with frequent hand washing, make sure to keep your hands away from your face to deny germs access to your respiratory system. Cold and flu virus transmission can be also be minimized by wiping down germ-filled areas (light switches, door knobs, tabletops, computer keyboards, remotes, etc.) frequently.
2. Stay Healthy - This might seem obvious, but staying healthy is usually a matter of adhering to general health practices. To keep the immune system strong, stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, eat a nutritious diet full of fruit and vegetables, exercise regularly and make sure you get plenty of rest. Following these overstated principles of health has the indisputable effect of defending against cold and flu viruses.
3. Consider the Flu Vaccine - Although receiving the seasonal flu vaccine is controversial, it is one of the most effective ways to prevent flu. Studies have found that in healthy adults, the flu vaccine can decrease the chances of coming down with the flu by as much as 70 to 90 percent. Of course, the flu vaccine only defends against a particular strain of influenza; it does not offer any protection against a cold or other flu viruses.
If all of your preventative approaches fall short this fall and winter, more ammunition may be necessary. The following five strategies can help reduce the severity and length of a cold or flu without posing any risks to a liver with Hepatitis C:
1. Vitamin C - Especially useful at the first symptoms of a cold or flu, Vitamin C helps many people ward off illness. While a significant boost of Vitamin C is typically suggested, the Institute of Medicine advises drawing the line at 2,000 mg daily to avoid gastrointestinal or kidney problems.
2. Gargle - To ease throat pain and inflammation, gargling with salt water helps draw infectious particles out of the affected tissue.
3. Steam - Breathing in steam helps keep mucous membranes moist and break up congestion. Adding one drop of eucalyptus essential oil to a bowl of hot water or the shower stall will add another dimension to clearing the sinuses.
4. Zinc - Shown to be more effective at the beginning of a cold or flu, zinc increases the production of disease-fighting white blood cells.
5. N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) - A precursor to glutathione, the principal antioxidant made in the body, NAC helps the liver break down hazardous compounds. This detoxification function makes NAC an important supplement for those with Hepatitis C. Additionally, NAC helps clear congested lungs and reduces cold and flu symptoms. Based on a study at the Institute of Hygiene and Preventive Medicine at the University of Genoa, Italy, NAC supplements reduced the likelihood of having flu symptoms by more than two-thirds.
Armed with the wisdom that you can strengthen resistance to getting sick and treat a cold or flu without harming the liver, there is no longer any reason for those with Hepatitis C to fear the onset of autumn.
References:
http://www.everydayhealth.com/cold-and-flu-pictures/ways-to-prevent-colds-and-flu.aspx?xid=nl_EverydayHealthHealthyAging_20101005, Protect Yourself to Prevent Colds and Flu, Diana Rodriguez, Retrieved October 7, 2010, Everyday Health, Inc., 2010.
http://www.health.com/health/condition-article/0,,20250943,00.html, Can Vitamin C and Zinc Fight Colds?, Alicia Potter, Retrieved October 9, 2010, Health Media Ventures Inc., 2010.
http://www.hepatitis-central.com/mt/archives/2009/07/acetaminophen_c_1.html, Acetaminophen Containing Drugs Pose Danger to Hepatitis C, Nicole Cutler, L.Ac., Retrieved October 7, 2010, Natural Wellness, 2010.
http://www.liversupport.com/wordpress/2009/11/tips-for-managing-the-flu-with-liver-disease/, Tips for Managing the Flu with Liver Disease, Nicole Cutler, L.Ac., Retrieved October 9, 2010, Natural Wellness, 2010.
http://www.liversupport.com/wordpress/2008/10/n-acetyl-cysteine-reduces-flu-symptoms/, N-Acetyl Cysteine Reduces Flu Symptoms, Nicole Cutler, L.Ac., Retrieved October 8, 2010, Natural Wellness, 2010.
http://www.thenutritionreporter.com/NAC-flu_and_cold_remedy.html, NAC: The Best Flu and Cold Remedy Yet?, Jack Challem, Retrieved October 8, 2010, Jack Challem, The Nutrition Reporter™, 2010.
Posted by Editors at 11:36 AM --- Printer-friendly version
October 7, 2010
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Learn about hot and cold therapy, a viable alternative to arthritis medications, and why it is a much safer option for those with Hepatitis C.
by Nicole Cutler, L.Ac.
Editor's Note: The following material is for educational purposes only and is not intended to supersede or replace a physician's recommendations.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, arthritis is the most common cause of disability in America. However, there are many ailments that can dramatically impact life without causing disability, such as the Hepatitis C virus (HCV). Hepatitis C is the most common cause of chronic liver disease and the most common blood-borne infection in the United States. Thus, a significant proportion of people with Hepatitis C also have arthritis.
The liver of someone with HCV has to work extra hard, and usually has a difficult time processing medications. The more a person's Hepatitis C infection has advanced, the fewer functioning liver cells there are available to metabolize drugs. Because of their liver's limitations, individuals with HCV and arthritis often seek ways other than drugs to relieve their arthritis pain. By learning about hot and cold therapy, those with arthritis can reap the benefits of what many physical therapists and bodyworkers already know about easing the inflammation, stiffness and pain typical of arthritis.
About Hot and Cold Therapy
Many medical disciplines rely on the physical properties of warmth and coldness to aid the body's healing process. Heat and ice are the two most common types of passive, non-invasive, and non-addictive therapies for arthritis:
· Hot Packs and Heat Therapy - Heat therapy causes the blood vessels to dilate, essentially drawing blood into the warmed tissues. Increased blood flow delivers needed oxygen and nutrients, and removes cellular waste. The warmth also decreases muscle spasm, relaxes tense muscles, relieves pain and can increase range of motion. Applying heat on an arthritic area can be done in many forms, such as hot packs, hot and moist compresses, dry or moist heating pads, hydrotherapy (hot bath) and commercial chemical/gel packs.
· Cold Packs and Cold Therapy (Cryotherapy) - Cold therapy causes blood vessels to constrict, which slows circulation in the cooled tissues. Slowing the circulation can reduce inflammation, stop muscle spasms and ease pain. Applying cold on an arthritic area can be done in many forms, such as commercial cold packs, ice cubes, iced towels/compresses and hydrotherapy (cold bath).
Instead of reaching for a pill to ease arthritis pain, those with Hepatitis C can do their liver a favor by choosing hot and cold therapy instead.
Choosing the Temperature
As long as safety precautions and the following general guidelines are considered, arthritis joint pain and stiffness can be effectively managed with hot and cold therapy:
· Heat is relaxing - Stiff, tense and sore muscles can be relaxed and relieved with heat. Not only does heat relax muscles, it also stimulates blood flow and improves circulation, helps increase range of motion and reduces stiffness in painful joints. Never apply heat to a joint that is already hot, red and irritated.
· Ice is cooling - When arthritis pain causes a burning sensation, applying an ice pack or bag of frozen vegetables can cool it off. When accompanied by heat and swelling, cold therapy can reduce inflammation. Do not apply cold to a joint that is cold and stiff.
· Safety precautions - To avoid burning the skin, make sure that the temperature is never uncomfortably high or low; place a cloth or towel between the source of heat or cold to prevent burns, do not apply heat to skin that is cut or injured and only apply heat or cold for 20 minutes or less at a time.
· Seek a physician's guidance - While hot and cold therapy is relatively safe, check with your physician first if you are pregnant, have diabetes or circulation problems.
It can take some experimentation and several attempts to find the best hot and cold therapy to relieve your arthritis pain. Remember, heat helps muscles relax; cold helps to minimize inflammation and pain. However, once you find a hot or cold application that helps manage your arthritis, you no longer need to be concerned about how your HCV-infected liver will contend with pharmaceutical pain relievers.
For more information about some of the drugs most hazardous to HCV, read "Acetaminophen Containing Drugs Pose Danger to Hepatitis" and "29 Potentially Toxic Drugs for Hepatitis C".
References:
http://arthritis.about.com/od/arthritisthefacts/a/prevalence.htm, Arthritis Prevalence and Statistics, Carol & Richard Eustice, Retrieved January 24, 2010, About.com, 2010.
http://arthritis.webmd.com/heat-and-cold-therapy-for-arthritis-pain, Heat and Cold Therapy for Arthritis Pain, Retrieved January 24, 2010, WebMD LLC, 2010.
http://www.arthritis.org/arthritis-disability-mmwr.php, New CDC Report: Number of Americans with Disability Growing, Retrieved January 24, 2010, Arthritis Foundation, 2010.
http://www.everydayhealth.com/arthritis/heat-and-cold-therapy.aspx?xid=nl_EverydayHealthHealthyAging_20100115, Hot and Cold Therapy for Arthritis Joint Pain, Diana Rodriguez, Retrieved January 24, 2010, Everyday Health, Inc, 2010.
http://www.holisticonline.com/hydrotherapy.htm, Hydrotherapy, Retrieved January 24, 2010, ICBS Inc., 2010.
http://www.spineuniverse.com/treatments/physical-therapy/hot-cold-therapies-pain-discomfort, Hot and Cold Therapies for Pain and Discomfort, Dana L. Davis MPT, Susan Spinasanta, Retrieved January 24, 2010, SpineUniverse.com, 2010.
Posted by Editors at 10:17 AM --- Printer-friendly version
October 6, 2010
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Since having Hepatitis C can increase one's sensitivity to a toxic drug interaction, those with the virus must become their own health advocate.
by Nicole Cutler, L.Ac.
The faith we have in Western medicine lead some to blindly rely on their physicians. This relinquishing of responsibility includes taking whatever drugs are suggested or prescribed by a doctor. Because the potential for liver toxicity is elevated with chronic Hepatitis C, those with this infection need to be especially proactive when managing their medications.
One of the liver's primary responsibilities is filtering out toxic substances from the blood. When people take pharmaceutical drugs, the liver's filtration capacity is essential for preventing dangerous chemicals from overloading the circulatory system. Normally, this process takes place efficiently and without causing any harm. Unfortunately, individuals with chronic Hepatitis C are likely to have a liver with decreased functionality and, thus, are more vulnerable to drug toxicity. This is because an already damaged and weakened liver must work much harder than a healthy liver to remove toxins from the body.
When new medications are developed, they are extensively tested to ensure that the liver is not damaged. There are over 1,000 known drugs and chemicals capable of causing injury to the liver (hepatotoxic). Medications that are known to be dangerous to people with liver disease usually carry a warning regarding its use in people with liver problems. Despite all of these efforts, medications sometimes harm the liver anyway. That is primarily because liver-toxic substances can be identified in the laboratory, but liver-hypersensitivity problems are not always predictable.
A great deal more research is needed to identify all of the medications that are possibly toxic to those with Hepatitis C, but the following list of suspected or confirmed liver-toxic drugs can help those with Hepatitis C better recognize potential hazards. As compiled by Misha Cohen and Robert Gish in The Hepatitis C Help Book, the following drugs should be accompanied by regular lab tests to check liver function changes in those with Hepatitis C:
1. Acetaminophen (primarily of concern when taken regularly)
2. Alpha-methyldopa
3. Amiodarone
4. Augmentin
5. Azathioprine
6. Carbamazapine
7. Chlorozoxazone
8. Dantrolene
9. Diclofenac
10. Fluconazole/Ketoconazole
11. Flutamide
12. Hydralazine
13. Ibuprofen
14. Isoniazid
15. Long-acting nicotinic acid
16. Leukotriene synthase inhibitors
17. Methotrexate
18. Nitrofurantoin
19. Perihexilene maleate
20. Phenylbutazone
21. Phenytoin
22. Quinidine
23. Rifampin
24. Statins - Pravastatin/Fluvastatin/Simivastatin/Lovastatin
25. Sulfa medications
26. Tacrine
27. Ticlopidine
28. Tolcapone
29. Troglitzone
Because each generic drug can have several brand names, only the generic name was included in this list. Thus, it is important to make sure you know the generic and brand names of any drugs you take. This list appears to be lengthy, but it is far from complete. Anytime someone with Hepatitis C takes a medication, even when prescribed by a healthcare provider, they should keep an eye out for negative reactions that could indicate hepatotoxicity. Symptoms to look for, include:
· a new skin rash
· nausea
· bloating
· fatigue
· aching around liver
· yellowing of the skin or eyes
· pale feces
Those with Hepatitis C should never assume that any given medication is completely safe. Discuss any drugs you take - prescribed or over-the-counter - with a knowledgeable healthcare provider. Besides working with a trusted physician to manage medications, it is important to remember that susceptibility to hepatotoxicity is raised with Hepatitis C and that hepatotoxic responses are not always predictable. Thus, individuals with Hepatitis C must communicate openly with their doctor about all medications taken and be proactive in gauging changes in their health with every new drug they take.
References:
http://www.acg.gi.org/patients/gihealth/mlp.asp, Medications and the Liver, Jorge L. Herrera, FACG, Retrieved September 4, 2010, American College of Gastroenterology, 2010.
http://www.hepcchallenge.org/choices/pdf/Appendix_IV_OL.pdf, Appendix IV: Liver-Toxic Medications and Herbs, The Hepatitis C Help Book - Revised Edition, Misha Cohen, Robert Gish, St. Martin's Griffin, 2007, pp 403-4; Caring Ambassador's Program, Inc., 2008.
http://www.liverdisease.com/medications_hepatitis.html, Medications and the Liver/Hepatitis, Retrieved September 4, 2010, Melissa Palmer, MD, 2010.
http://www.medicinenet.com/drug_induced_liver_disease/page8.htm#tocp, Drug Induced Liver Disease, Retrieved September 4, 2010, MedicineNet, Inc., 2010.
http://www.webmd.com/hepatitis/hepc-guide/managing-hepatitis-c, Managing Hepatitis C, Retrieved September 4, 2010, WebMD, LLC, 2010.
Posted by Editors at 9:45 AM --- Printer-friendly version
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As Phase II trials to determine a dosing schedule for ACH-1625 begin, Achillion gets closer to a safe and tolerable medication for suppressing the Hepatitis C virus.
Achillion begins anti-hepatitis drug trials
10/01/10
New Haven drug developer Achillion Pharmaceuticals Inc. says it has begun two human clinical trials in the U.S. and Europe to determine the dosing effectiveness of a prototype treatment against the hepatitis C virus.
Some 120 patients with chronic hepatitis C participating in the two double-blind trials -- one to run 28 days, the other 12 weeks -- will be randomly dosed with small-molecule ACH-1625 drug or with a placebo.
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http://www.hartfordbusiness.com/news15041.html
Posted by Editors at 9:37 AM --- Printer-friendly version
