starting Harvoni tomorrow

[dereklee3]

I was recently diagnosed and starting Harvoni tomorrow. I see the side effects are mild headache and fatigue. I see here people are taking tylenol. Is that safe?

[Lynn K]

Hi and welcome to the forum and congrats on starting therapy

You can take Tylenol as long as you don't exceed the recommended daily dose of 2000 mg. And remember to read labels as combo medicines may contain Tylenol aka acetaminophen as an ingredient so avoid increasing the dose unintentionally by taking different meds that may also contain acetaminophen. Actually Tylenol is the preferred pain med for patients with cirrhosis as long as the dose in in that below 2000 mg level. Other OTC pain meds can be dangerous for patients with cirrhosis.

Your best source of medications questions is your doctor as they know your individual medical situation best and need to know what medicines you are taking.

Good luck on treatment

[dereklee3]

Thank you for responding. I don't usually take any medication, for anything, so this is all new to me. I will probably not take anything for headache, but it's good to know I can.

[BubbaT]

Hi Derek,

I read an article where aspirin was used during treatments, and found to have a positive effect on inhibiting fibrosis Progression.

I would prefer low dose apirin over Tylenol...

But for me the water has reduced any headaches symptoms ...

[dereklee3]

second day and no headache yet. I cannot stop drinking water, though.

[Lynn K]

Hi Bubba

It depends alot on liver damage status if the patient has cirrhosis there is a danger of bleeding due to esophageal varicies or GAVE (Gastric antral vascular ectasia) which is increased due to NSAIDS (Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) i.e. aspirin or other meds like Aleve or Advil

For for patients with cirrhosis the recommended med is Tylenol but always check with your doctor

[BubbaT]

Thanks Lynn, 

I try not to take anything, but I was not sure about Tylenol, so I would deal with minor headaches and pains cause I have been dealing so long with chronic pain in the abdomen that I just would override the minor issues with my will or take aspirin.

About 5' months ago I pulled a tear in my shoulder tendons and and pinched a nerve in my neck, and dr gave me tramadol and codeine,  my injury was severe, and I know the drugs were killing my liver, but, the pain in my shoulder kept me from sleeping, so I had a month where I laid in the bed and did nothing,

Now I'm back at work, maintenance Hvac, and doing better and the Harvoni is working, so I don't take anything unless I'm dead! Lol

I can tell you have been thru the ringer, when I read your post and see your previous rx, your a trooper Lynn, we salute you!

Thanks for helping me with your phd in treatment experience, I know you earned your stripes!

God bless