TREATMENT

Direct-acting antivirals (DAAs)

Treatment Summary

Direct-acting antivirals, usually called DAAs, are the main treatment for hepatitis C. These medicines work by stopping the hepatitis C virus from making copies of itself, which allows the virus to clear from the body. Treatment is usually a short course of tablets and cures more than 95% of people.

Treatment Goal

The aim of treatment is to cure hepatitis C. Doctors usually confirm this with a blood test 12 weeks after treatment ends, often called SVR12. If the virus is no longer found at that point, you are considered cured. Many people also see improvements in liver inflammation and liver function after hepatitis C is cleared. However, it is possible to get hepatitis C again in the future, so advice on safer injecting, safer sex in some situations, and avoiding blood exposure is still important.

Approach

Treatment for hepatitis C is usually simple, short, and very effective. Most people take tablets by mouth for 8 to 12 weeks. In many cases, the medicines used treat all main types of hepatitis C, so extra genotype testing may not be needed before starting. Your hospital team may also do blood tests and liver checks before, during, and after treatment to make sure the medicine is safe and working well.

Availability In Ireland

Hepatitis C treatment is fully reimbursed in Ireland, so people do not usually have to pay the full cost themselves. Treatment is available through hepatology, gastroenterology, and some infectious disease clinics in hospitals. You can start by speaking to your GP, who can arrange testing and refer you if needed, or by attending an HSE sexual health or hospital service if appropriate. People who inject drugs can also access treatment pathways through harm reduction and addiction services, which are an important part of hepatitis C care in Ireland. Access is generally good, but waiting times can vary depending on the service and where you live.