TREATMENT
Antiviral treatment for chronic hepatitis B
Treatment Summary
Treatment Goal
The main aim of treatment is to suppress the hepatitis B virus so it causes as little harm as possible to the liver. If treatment works well, your viral load can become very low or undetectable, liver inflammation can improve, and your risk of cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer is reduced. Most people need monitoring over time, and some need long-term treatment, but hepatitis B can often be managed successfully as a long-term condition.
Approach
Acute hepatitis B, which is a new infection, is usually managed with supportive care while the body clears the virus on its own. Chronic hepatitis B, where the virus stays in the body long term, may need antiviral treatment depending on blood test results, liver inflammation, liver damage, and overall health. People with chronic hepatitis B are usually monitored by a liver specialist, infectious disease doctor, or hospital team to decide when treatment should start and how it should be followed up.
Availability In Ireland
In Ireland, treatment for chronic hepatitis B is usually provided through hospital-based hepatology, gastroenterology, or infectious disease services. A GP can arrange blood tests and refer you to the appropriate HSE clinic or hospital specialist if hepatitis B is suspected or already diagnosed. Sexual health clinics may also help with testing, vaccination, and referral. Antiviral treatment is available in Ireland, and the cost of medicines may be covered or subsidised depending on your medical card, Drugs Payment Scheme, or hospital scheme. Access times can vary depending on where you live and local waiting lists, so it is a good idea to speak with your GP or clinic early if you need assessment. The hepatitis B vaccine is part of the routine childhood immunisation programme in Ireland and is also available for adults at higher risk through GP services, occupational health, and HSE sexual health or travel clinics.