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Author Topic: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening  (Read 45383 times)

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Offline Debula

  • Member
  • Posts: 257
  • "Your body hears everything your mind says"
Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« on: April 16, 2015, 10:40:14 am »
Hi friends
I have been reading and posting and learning from all of you for almost 3 weeks now.  And I have learned A LOT  I was finally approved for Harvoni 24 week treatment (24x7=168  ??? ) and will be starting today.  I am excited and scared
I will post here and use this a log of my progress

Good luck to all of you and woooo-hoooo hoooo!! for today being Day ONE of Slaying this dragon and hopefully being cured of this nasty virus
Logged
80's DX: NonA,B
Non responder to Interferon
3/6/2015-GT 1a
VL-1920000 IU/mL
FibroSURE: Fibrosis stage F4 (0.79)
                  Necroinflammat activity A3 Severe (0.75)
AST 88,  ALT 120, Platelets 73
4/16/2015-Started Harvoni (24 weeks)
5/13/2015-4 weeks AST 26, ALT 36 
5/22/2015-5 weeks  VL UND
6/17/2015-9 weeks  VL UND AST 28 ALT 40
7/31/2015-15 weeks VL UND AST 27 ALT 39
9/22 Diagnosed with HCC
10/1-EOT
10/29-SVR4
12/23-SVR12
I AM HEPC FREE! :)

Offline GLCII

  • Member
  • Posts: 127
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #1 on: April 16, 2015, 10:55:11 am »
Good Luck Debula

I hope it all goes well and smooth for you.

I remember when I was to take my first pill. Covance called and said my meds would be here the next day. A friday the 6th. I was pretty excited to say the least. I was supposed to start Tx on a saturday march 7th. Then they got about an inch of snow in Memphis which shut down FedEx and the entire region. I didn't get my meds till wednesday the 11th. Hence my march 12th start. I will say though that taking the first pill is pretty exciting. Especially knowing the odds are finally in our favor for the first time.

Again, Good Luck!!!
Logged
Pre Tx (VL 12043488) ALT 52/ AST 39
Harvoni Start Date 03/12
2 Week in Tx Results HCV RNA Detected, less than 15 IU/mL. ALT 19 / AST 19
4 Weeks in Tx Results HCV RNA Not detected. ALT 21 / AST 18
12 Week in Tx Results HCV RNA Not detected. ALT 17 / AST 19
--------------------------------------------------------------
Post 12 Week EOT Tx ALT 19/ AST 19 (Undetected)
Post 24 Week EOT Tx ALT 19/ AST 15 (Undetected)

Offline BubbaT

  • Member
  • Posts: 267
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #2 on: April 17, 2015, 09:39:09 pm »
How's it going deb?

is the rx going good?
Logged
Age 57 male
Infected late 70's
Diagnosed 95
1a, 2 prev biopsy 95, 2004
Ct 2007, 2015
Treatment Naive
F4 A3. Fibrosure/ CT 2-5-15. Ammonia 222
VL 2.2 mil.
Started Harvoni  3-3-15. 12weeks, finished 5-26-15
4 week VL undetected
12 week EOT undetected

Offline Corey

  • Member
  • Posts: 31
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #3 on: April 18, 2015, 10:42:19 am »
Go for it! 
Drink water and prosper!
Logged

Offline Debula

  • Member
  • Posts: 257
  • "Your body hears everything your mind says"
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #4 on: April 18, 2015, 02:38:44 pm »
Thanks everybody.  So far it's going great.  No side effects to report. 
The only thing I have noticed is that I run out of steam a couple hours before the next dose.  It is like i am a baloon someone literally pulled the plug and let out all my energy.  I might tweak the time that i take it so when this happens i will already be home ( if it keeps happening). I feel "swollen" in the upper right quadrum under my rib age. . It feels like a giant bubble.  It is annoying but  I can live with that.   I feel like my liver is in a " battle" so knowing that makes it tolerable.  Hopefully it will get better.  I also feel like I have a sunburn a couple hours after taking it.  But again this is just me noticing too much and no big deal at all
I have been drinking lots of water and trying to eat a little better.  Baby steps

So far this is a walk in the park.  Hopefully it will continue this way.   I am very grateful to be given this chance.  I can't wait to see the outcome in 6 months


Logged
80's DX: NonA,B
Non responder to Interferon
3/6/2015-GT 1a
VL-1920000 IU/mL
FibroSURE: Fibrosis stage F4 (0.79)
                  Necroinflammat activity A3 Severe (0.75)
AST 88,  ALT 120, Platelets 73
4/16/2015-Started Harvoni (24 weeks)
5/13/2015-4 weeks AST 26, ALT 36 
5/22/2015-5 weeks  VL UND
6/17/2015-9 weeks  VL UND AST 28 ALT 40
7/31/2015-15 weeks VL UND AST 27 ALT 39
9/22 Diagnosed with HCC
10/1-EOT
10/29-SVR4
12/23-SVR12
I AM HEPC FREE! :)

Offline KimInTheForest

  • Member
  • Posts: 1,972
  • Believe in yourself
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #5 on: April 18, 2015, 02:55:47 pm »
Awesome Debula! That's great news. You are, in all likelihood, on your way to being cured. Wonderful to hear that your side effects are so far minor to non-existent.

Kim :)
Logged
Kim Goldberg (Nanaimo, BC)
1970s: Contracted HCV (genotype 3a)
2015: Cured with Harvoni + ribavirin (12 weeks)
MY STORY: https://pigsquash.wordpress.com/2016/01/28/undetectable-my-hep-c-story/

Offline Debula

  • Member
  • Posts: 257
  • "Your body hears everything your mind says"
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #6 on: April 21, 2015, 03:45:46 pm »
Reporting for Day 6 and I am at work and feel fine.  I guess I feel a little mushy in the brain but I think I am used to having brain fog so it doesn't seem to be much worse than it already was.  Same with the fatigue.   The liver "pain" has diminished significantly. Dull headache comes and goes no big deal at all.  I just drink more water and it seems to go away.  It seems my itchy skin is doing a little better too!
Still have ringing in the ears and sometimes it gets really loud.  But I had that before Harvoni so maybe Harvoni just makes it louder.

So far so good, I hope it stays like this- only 162 days to go  8)
Logged
80's DX: NonA,B
Non responder to Interferon
3/6/2015-GT 1a
VL-1920000 IU/mL
FibroSURE: Fibrosis stage F4 (0.79)
                  Necroinflammat activity A3 Severe (0.75)
AST 88,  ALT 120, Platelets 73
4/16/2015-Started Harvoni (24 weeks)
5/13/2015-4 weeks AST 26, ALT 36 
5/22/2015-5 weeks  VL UND
6/17/2015-9 weeks  VL UND AST 28 ALT 40
7/31/2015-15 weeks VL UND AST 27 ALT 39
9/22 Diagnosed with HCC
10/1-EOT
10/29-SVR4
12/23-SVR12
I AM HEPC FREE! :)

Offline Debula

  • Member
  • Posts: 257
  • "Your body hears everything your mind says"
Re: Started Harvoni on 4/16/2015
« Reply #7 on: April 23, 2015, 11:43:59 am »
Yesterday was day 7- really bad headache that just would not go away but otherwise no other sides :)

Today is day 8
-so far so good.  Of course I only took it 45 min ago but hopefully no headache today (or anything else)
Logged
80's DX: NonA,B
Non responder to Interferon
3/6/2015-GT 1a
VL-1920000 IU/mL
FibroSURE: Fibrosis stage F4 (0.79)
                  Necroinflammat activity A3 Severe (0.75)
AST 88,  ALT 120, Platelets 73
4/16/2015-Started Harvoni (24 weeks)
5/13/2015-4 weeks AST 26, ALT 36 
5/22/2015-5 weeks  VL UND
6/17/2015-9 weeks  VL UND AST 28 ALT 40
7/31/2015-15 weeks VL UND AST 27 ALT 39
9/22 Diagnosed with HCC
10/1-EOT
10/29-SVR4
12/23-SVR12
I AM HEPC FREE! :)

Offline SIXFOOTFOUR

  • Member
  • Posts: 89
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #8 on: April 23, 2015, 11:50:25 am »
For the headache, hydrate-hydrate-hydrate and if need a tylenol or motrin.

In my experience a lot of water is the best thing, I make sure to drink 8oz with the pill and then at least 1/2 my body weight in oz of water and some gatorade daily (for me 220 lbs I drink at least 110 oz a day about 1-2 20 oz gatorade and the other 70+ oz in water)
Logged
Sixfootfour
* Contracted Hep C 1971 post transfusion (non A - non
   B Hep dx in 1971)
* Dx as Hep C early 2000
* Geno 1b
* Stage 3-4 Fibrosis by Biopsy and FibroScan
* VL at start of TX > 6 mil
* ALT/AST High normal range at start of Tx 
* Started Harvoni 12 week course 3/6/15 -
   completion 5/29/15
* Undetected at 6 weeks on Tx
* ALT/AST Mid normal range at 6 week blood test
* Completed 12 weeks (84 pills) 6/28/15
* Undetected at 11 weeks & 6 months EOT

Offline Debula

  • Member
  • Posts: 257
  • "Your body hears everything your mind says"
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #9 on: April 23, 2015, 12:47:16 pm »
Thanks 6footer- I have been drinking so much water that it is coming out of my ears LOL and normally (in my few days of experience) that seems to work.
But yesterday it didn't want to go away. 
Today is good though so I can deal with a headache every now and again
I should add some good tasting Gatorade to my daily drinking thanks for the idea

~cheers
Deb
Logged
80's DX: NonA,B
Non responder to Interferon
3/6/2015-GT 1a
VL-1920000 IU/mL
FibroSURE: Fibrosis stage F4 (0.79)
                  Necroinflammat activity A3 Severe (0.75)
AST 88,  ALT 120, Platelets 73
4/16/2015-Started Harvoni (24 weeks)
5/13/2015-4 weeks AST 26, ALT 36 
5/22/2015-5 weeks  VL UND
6/17/2015-9 weeks  VL UND AST 28 ALT 40
7/31/2015-15 weeks VL UND AST 27 ALT 39
9/22 Diagnosed with HCC
10/1-EOT
10/29-SVR4
12/23-SVR12
I AM HEPC FREE! :)

Offline Debula

  • Member
  • Posts: 257
  • "Your body hears everything your mind says"
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #10 on: April 25, 2015, 06:55:54 pm »
Today is day 10

I have no side effects so far thankfully  :)

(158 more days to go)
Logged
80's DX: NonA,B
Non responder to Interferon
3/6/2015-GT 1a
VL-1920000 IU/mL
FibroSURE: Fibrosis stage F4 (0.79)
                  Necroinflammat activity A3 Severe (0.75)
AST 88,  ALT 120, Platelets 73
4/16/2015-Started Harvoni (24 weeks)
5/13/2015-4 weeks AST 26, ALT 36 
5/22/2015-5 weeks  VL UND
6/17/2015-9 weeks  VL UND AST 28 ALT 40
7/31/2015-15 weeks VL UND AST 27 ALT 39
9/22 Diagnosed with HCC
10/1-EOT
10/29-SVR4
12/23-SVR12
I AM HEPC FREE! :)

Offline Debula

  • Member
  • Posts: 257
  • "Your body hears everything your mind says"
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #11 on: April 27, 2015, 03:14:55 pm »
Today is day 12

Still feeling good.  No sides to report

156 days to go!
Logged
80's DX: NonA,B
Non responder to Interferon
3/6/2015-GT 1a
VL-1920000 IU/mL
FibroSURE: Fibrosis stage F4 (0.79)
                  Necroinflammat activity A3 Severe (0.75)
AST 88,  ALT 120, Platelets 73
4/16/2015-Started Harvoni (24 weeks)
5/13/2015-4 weeks AST 26, ALT 36 
5/22/2015-5 weeks  VL UND
6/17/2015-9 weeks  VL UND AST 28 ALT 40
7/31/2015-15 weeks VL UND AST 27 ALT 39
9/22 Diagnosed with HCC
10/1-EOT
10/29-SVR4
12/23-SVR12
I AM HEPC FREE! :)

Offline Mike

  • Member
  • Posts: 999
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #12 on: April 27, 2015, 04:15:03 pm »
Hi Debula,

I'm glad you're not experiencing any side effects! It should be a smooth ride through treatment for you.  :)

Best wishes, Mike
Logged
Genotype 1a
Treated 2001 with PEG and RIBV
Treated in 2014 SOL+PEG+RIBV
Cured July 2014

Offline GLCII

  • Member
  • Posts: 127
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #13 on: April 28, 2015, 10:08:56 am »
Debula

When do you go for your first blood test?
Logged
Pre Tx (VL 12043488) ALT 52/ AST 39
Harvoni Start Date 03/12
2 Week in Tx Results HCV RNA Detected, less than 15 IU/mL. ALT 19 / AST 19
4 Weeks in Tx Results HCV RNA Not detected. ALT 21 / AST 18
12 Week in Tx Results HCV RNA Not detected. ALT 17 / AST 19
--------------------------------------------------------------
Post 12 Week EOT Tx ALT 19/ AST 19 (Undetected)
Post 24 Week EOT Tx ALT 19/ AST 15 (Undetected)

Offline Debula

  • Member
  • Posts: 257
  • "Your body hears everything your mind says"
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #14 on: April 28, 2015, 10:13:05 am »
Thanks Mike

@GLCII- I see my doctor on Friday so I will ask him.  I'm guessing that he will advise blood work on the 4 week mark.  I will ask to get tested every 2 weeks though.  Friday will be 2 weeks and 1 day. And I am dying to see what the results will show after only 2 weeks
Logged
80's DX: NonA,B
Non responder to Interferon
3/6/2015-GT 1a
VL-1920000 IU/mL
FibroSURE: Fibrosis stage F4 (0.79)
                  Necroinflammat activity A3 Severe (0.75)
AST 88,  ALT 120, Platelets 73
4/16/2015-Started Harvoni (24 weeks)
5/13/2015-4 weeks AST 26, ALT 36 
5/22/2015-5 weeks  VL UND
6/17/2015-9 weeks  VL UND AST 28 ALT 40
7/31/2015-15 weeks VL UND AST 27 ALT 39
9/22 Diagnosed with HCC
10/1-EOT
10/29-SVR4
12/23-SVR12
I AM HEPC FREE! :)

Offline GLCII

  • Member
  • Posts: 127
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #15 on: April 28, 2015, 10:50:18 am »
I don't blame you for wanting to see the results after 2 weeks and you should if that's what you want. It's exciting seeing the reduction in the viral count. My first 2 week test showed the virus go from 12043488 down to below 15. That's 860249 copies a day. That was somewhat exciting. I think 2 weeks should be a standard because of the fact, for me anyway, that the waiting is kind of stressful and I want to see the progress as it happens. My doctor put in a standing order so I get mine every 2 weeks and everytime they come in I get anxious and somewhat nervous when I click on the results. I just saw my 6 week test yesterday and was probably more anxious then I was on my 4 week. Not sure why. I didn't think it would change. But that's me.

Good Luck on your test. I hope it shows Not Detected!!! Keep us posted.
Logged
Pre Tx (VL 12043488) ALT 52/ AST 39
Harvoni Start Date 03/12
2 Week in Tx Results HCV RNA Detected, less than 15 IU/mL. ALT 19 / AST 19
4 Weeks in Tx Results HCV RNA Not detected. ALT 21 / AST 18
12 Week in Tx Results HCV RNA Not detected. ALT 17 / AST 19
--------------------------------------------------------------
Post 12 Week EOT Tx ALT 19/ AST 19 (Undetected)
Post 24 Week EOT Tx ALT 19/ AST 15 (Undetected)

Offline Debula

  • Member
  • Posts: 257
  • "Your body hears everything your mind says"
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #16 on: April 28, 2015, 11:01:27 am »
GLCII-I think I would be nervous at 6 weeks too!  I suppose because anything could happen.  I will request them for every 2 weeks then.  I mean it should be my choice anyway right?
I get all of my test results online except for the VL tests!.  I don't know why exactly.  I think my hospital sends them out to somewhere else possibly? I have been trying to find out because if I go into the lab they can print them up but when I look at the portal they are not there (all the other tests are there except the ones I am most interested in :( )  I have tried calling the hospital and they gave me tech support but I still have not found out why.  Luckily the hospital is very close to my house so I can just pop over and have them print them for me.
I am going to mention the stress factor of waiting (thanks for that tip btw) too :)

Thank you and congratulations on your UND
Logged
80's DX: NonA,B
Non responder to Interferon
3/6/2015-GT 1a
VL-1920000 IU/mL
FibroSURE: Fibrosis stage F4 (0.79)
                  Necroinflammat activity A3 Severe (0.75)
AST 88,  ALT 120, Platelets 73
4/16/2015-Started Harvoni (24 weeks)
5/13/2015-4 weeks AST 26, ALT 36 
5/22/2015-5 weeks  VL UND
6/17/2015-9 weeks  VL UND AST 28 ALT 40
7/31/2015-15 weeks VL UND AST 27 ALT 39
9/22 Diagnosed with HCC
10/1-EOT
10/29-SVR4
12/23-SVR12
I AM HEPC FREE! :)

Offline Linmari

  • Newbie
  • Posts: 1
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #17 on: April 28, 2015, 09:44:23 pm »
Happy for you. Well in 2 days I will have completed my 12 week course of Harvoni and Ribavirin. Last 2 virul loads non detected. First week dropped from over 100mil to 657. I contracted HCV geno1a. in 1989 so have 25 years of liver damage and thank God I will turn 58 end of May.
I take 1 Harvoni 3 Ribavirin at 7am then 3 Ribavirin at 12pm. Was rough a bit but I knew 12 weeks was short compared to my sister having used peg and Ribavirin for 24. Did a lot of crying lol felt like hormonal swing city. Had other symptoms as, not hungry I forced down soup and Gatorade first 8 weeks. Loss of hair, itching (had to cut my nails off twice!) was a bloody mess. Some days could not move. Mild to moderate flu type symptoms. Last few weeks Edema in both feet they look like sausages. Plus what I call my water baby. Fluid build up in stomach. Oh yes headache fist 4-5 weeks. Food has become to taste funny. Labs look ok, platelets was as low as 33 now last week 59. Memory messed up. I have more symptoms but this is getting to be a long read. If anything seems off anything at all contact your Doc. That way it can be stopped or adjusted. I have a great team UCSF. And a greater one at home.
Thank you for listening.
Linmari
Logged

Offline jiff

  • Member
  • Posts: 17
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #18 on: April 29, 2015, 09:43:23 am »
Hi there! I'm new to the forum. I started HARVONI on 4/11/15 and find it amazing how it's doing so much for me with very minimal  side effects. My #2 week labs showed my ALT & AST dropped within normal ranges & my Dr said that means that the med is working & the inflammation is gone!! Truly amazing and I couldn't be any more grateful/thankful for the new tx!!I've been waiting over 12 year's for the new drug to be developed and approved!!! Wishing you all the best!!!
Logged

Offline Debula

  • Member
  • Posts: 257
  • "Your body hears everything your mind says"
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #19 on: April 29, 2015, 11:45:55 am »
@ Linmari- welcome to the forum and I am so sorry to hear that you are having such a tough time.  You are almost done and I hope you start feeling better soon
I have felt kinda crappy since yesterday but it is nothing new so I can't blame it on Harvoni.  I have days where my legs ache and just feel shaky and exhausted.  This was happening before Harvoni so I know it is not a side effect of the medication

Hi Jif and welcome - We started Harvoni a few days apart.  How long will you be taking it?  I am glad you are feeling good! 

I hope we all feel better and get cured
We all have waited so long
Logged
80's DX: NonA,B
Non responder to Interferon
3/6/2015-GT 1a
VL-1920000 IU/mL
FibroSURE: Fibrosis stage F4 (0.79)
                  Necroinflammat activity A3 Severe (0.75)
AST 88,  ALT 120, Platelets 73
4/16/2015-Started Harvoni (24 weeks)
5/13/2015-4 weeks AST 26, ALT 36 
5/22/2015-5 weeks  VL UND
6/17/2015-9 weeks  VL UND AST 28 ALT 40
7/31/2015-15 weeks VL UND AST 27 ALT 39
9/22 Diagnosed with HCC
10/1-EOT
10/29-SVR4
12/23-SVR12
I AM HEPC FREE! :)

Offline jiff

  • Member
  • Posts: 17
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #20 on: April 29, 2015, 03:13:23 pm »
My last pill is 7/4/15-so a bit of a way to go. Has anyone heard of irritability being a side effect of harvoni or should i be attributing it to life??? Thanks!!
Logged

Offline Debula

  • Member
  • Posts: 257
  • "Your body hears everything your mind says"
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #21 on: April 29, 2015, 03:54:13 pm »
Quote from: jiff on April 29, 2015, 03:13:23 pm
My last pill is 7/4/15-so a bit of a way to go. Has anyone heard of irritability being a side effect of harvoni or should i be attributing it to life??? Thanks!!

Yes I have read that irritability is a side effect for some.  I am noticing I have a short fuse lately too :)
You are closer than you think.. I take them until October I think
Hang in there!
« Last Edit: April 30, 2015, 11:00:26 am by Debula »
Logged
80's DX: NonA,B
Non responder to Interferon
3/6/2015-GT 1a
VL-1920000 IU/mL
FibroSURE: Fibrosis stage F4 (0.79)
                  Necroinflammat activity A3 Severe (0.75)
AST 88,  ALT 120, Platelets 73
4/16/2015-Started Harvoni (24 weeks)
5/13/2015-4 weeks AST 26, ALT 36 
5/22/2015-5 weeks  VL UND
6/17/2015-9 weeks  VL UND AST 28 ALT 40
7/31/2015-15 weeks VL UND AST 27 ALT 39
9/22 Diagnosed with HCC
10/1-EOT
10/29-SVR4
12/23-SVR12
I AM HEPC FREE! :)

Offline jiff

  • Member
  • Posts: 17
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #22 on: April 30, 2015, 02:51:20 am »
I'm definitely noticing a significant decrease in my patience/tolerance for the circumstances surrounding my situation when compared to prior to tx(mainly my husbands work schedule making support when I truly need it an impossibility)....I made the huge mistake of succumbing to my exhaustion around 5p.m.yesterday and sleeping until 7:45 p.m.and I'm not surprised that I'm up at this time of morning due to that nap.i have 2 toddlers who are up bright and early rearing to go whether I've slept or not (they're like roosters)& days are seeming longer than ever before...praying to get sleepy any time now..I'm envious of anyone who has the luxury to nap/bathe/relax as needed because as a mother of little ones,my ability to care for myself is limited and dependent entirely upon others.yikes!!im never awake this late.....
Logged

Offline Debula

  • Member
  • Posts: 257
  • "Your body hears everything your mind says"
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #23 on: April 30, 2015, 11:05:48 am »
it is hard not to be irritable when you feel tired
I feel the same way at work. 
Today is my 2 week mark and I feel like I woke up with a hangover
I drank more than enough water yesterday but I think I am still dehydrated
or... it is the weather... I don't know,  just feeling like I have a brick on my head today I wish I could take a nap right here at my desk.
BUT I refuse to say that the way I am feeling is from Harvoni side effects because I felt like this on MANY occasions before Harvoni and I need to keep myself positive because I have such a long way to go still.

Maybe you can take a little nap when the toddlers do?  Hope you feel better today :)
Logged
80's DX: NonA,B
Non responder to Interferon
3/6/2015-GT 1a
VL-1920000 IU/mL
FibroSURE: Fibrosis stage F4 (0.79)
                  Necroinflammat activity A3 Severe (0.75)
AST 88,  ALT 120, Platelets 73
4/16/2015-Started Harvoni (24 weeks)
5/13/2015-4 weeks AST 26, ALT 36 
5/22/2015-5 weeks  VL UND
6/17/2015-9 weeks  VL UND AST 28 ALT 40
7/31/2015-15 weeks VL UND AST 27 ALT 39
9/22 Diagnosed with HCC
10/1-EOT
10/29-SVR4
12/23-SVR12
I AM HEPC FREE! :)

Offline Debula

  • Member
  • Posts: 257
  • "Your body hears everything your mind says"
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #24 on: May 04, 2015, 10:38:38 am »
Day 19 (3rd week)-Feeling OK no side effects to report
Logged
80's DX: NonA,B
Non responder to Interferon
3/6/2015-GT 1a
VL-1920000 IU/mL
FibroSURE: Fibrosis stage F4 (0.79)
                  Necroinflammat activity A3 Severe (0.75)
AST 88,  ALT 120, Platelets 73
4/16/2015-Started Harvoni (24 weeks)
5/13/2015-4 weeks AST 26, ALT 36 
5/22/2015-5 weeks  VL UND
6/17/2015-9 weeks  VL UND AST 28 ALT 40
7/31/2015-15 weeks VL UND AST 27 ALT 39
9/22 Diagnosed with HCC
10/1-EOT
10/29-SVR4
12/23-SVR12
I AM HEPC FREE! :)

Offline sapphire101

  • Member
  • Posts: 238
  • "Stop worrying and start living"
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #25 on: May 04, 2015, 11:18:25 am »
Work and irritability...Debula it is hard for me to figure out what is the cause and effect. I think my treatment may just be coinciding with a complete re-evaluation of my vocation and lack of balance in my life in general.


First things first. Kill this virus off and then I can think straight about my next steps.
It would be interesting to track how many life changes we all have a year from now when we are healthy and free to choose different paths. 
Logged
Sapphire101
Genotype 1a Fibrosis level 1
Viekira Pak with ribavirin 12 weeks
Pre treatment  VL  1.7 million, AST 45 ALT 65
EOT VL not detected, AST 21 ALT 21
12 week SVR not detected,24 week SVR not detected.
Cured! Class of 2015

Offline Debula

  • Member
  • Posts: 257
  • "Your body hears everything your mind says"
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #26 on: May 04, 2015, 01:50:33 pm »
Sapphire, I feel the same way
I get like this during spring time though so... a general feeling of being off balance, with work and home life

You are right!  Lets tackle one thing at a time  :)
Logged
80's DX: NonA,B
Non responder to Interferon
3/6/2015-GT 1a
VL-1920000 IU/mL
FibroSURE: Fibrosis stage F4 (0.79)
                  Necroinflammat activity A3 Severe (0.75)
AST 88,  ALT 120, Platelets 73
4/16/2015-Started Harvoni (24 weeks)
5/13/2015-4 weeks AST 26, ALT 36 
5/22/2015-5 weeks  VL UND
6/17/2015-9 weeks  VL UND AST 28 ALT 40
7/31/2015-15 weeks VL UND AST 27 ALT 39
9/22 Diagnosed with HCC
10/1-EOT
10/29-SVR4
12/23-SVR12
I AM HEPC FREE! :)

Offline Debula

  • Member
  • Posts: 257
  • "Your body hears everything your mind says"
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #27 on: May 07, 2015, 10:51:24 am »
Today is day 22 (first day of week 4)- I am still feeling no side effects
It is hard for me to say any of the things I feel are side effects because I have had most of these problems all along.
ears ringing
fatigue
gastro-intestinal stuff like bloating, gas  :P etc..

Some days I feel like I have more energy a few hours after taking Harvoni
and I wake up feeling kind of "out of it" most mornings but that goes away a few hours later

I am excited that I am beginning my 4th week so next Thursday I can have my first blood draw!   :)
Logged
80's DX: NonA,B
Non responder to Interferon
3/6/2015-GT 1a
VL-1920000 IU/mL
FibroSURE: Fibrosis stage F4 (0.79)
                  Necroinflammat activity A3 Severe (0.75)
AST 88,  ALT 120, Platelets 73
4/16/2015-Started Harvoni (24 weeks)
5/13/2015-4 weeks AST 26, ALT 36 
5/22/2015-5 weeks  VL UND
6/17/2015-9 weeks  VL UND AST 28 ALT 40
7/31/2015-15 weeks VL UND AST 27 ALT 39
9/22 Diagnosed with HCC
10/1-EOT
10/29-SVR4
12/23-SVR12
I AM HEPC FREE! :)

Offline BubbaT

  • Member
  • Posts: 267
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #28 on: May 07, 2015, 12:01:52 pm »
Hi debula,

I think there is a pick me up after taking Harvoni, I wish I understood what is happening on the inside of the body after taking Harvoni. I'm on week 9 and I can tell
I get a kick after taking it in morning, my Side effects are not bad at this point in treatment,

I talked to my GI yesterday, he said something I'm not sure I agree with, he asked if I had diaherra?  No,  I asked, how long before my liver would recover now that I'm clear, he said 2 years, wow, I don't know if he's right about that!

I'm not convinced the GI knows everything they pretend to know...




Logged
Age 57 male
Infected late 70's
Diagnosed 95
1a, 2 prev biopsy 95, 2004
Ct 2007, 2015
Treatment Naive
F4 A3. Fibrosure/ CT 2-5-15. Ammonia 222
VL 2.2 mil.
Started Harvoni  3-3-15. 12weeks, finished 5-26-15
4 week VL undetected
12 week EOT undetected

Offline Debula

  • Member
  • Posts: 257
  • "Your body hears everything your mind says"
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #29 on: May 07, 2015, 12:07:31 pm »
Hi Bubba
I am happy to hear you are doing good!
I agree.  I don't think they know as much as they should LOL

My doctor said my liver would NOT improve and he actually said to think of it as a piece of shredded leather.  How can you fix a piece of shredded leather
Very encouraging right?

I have to believe that it will improve at least a little.
Logged
80's DX: NonA,B
Non responder to Interferon
3/6/2015-GT 1a
VL-1920000 IU/mL
FibroSURE: Fibrosis stage F4 (0.79)
                  Necroinflammat activity A3 Severe (0.75)
AST 88,  ALT 120, Platelets 73
4/16/2015-Started Harvoni (24 weeks)
5/13/2015-4 weeks AST 26, ALT 36 
5/22/2015-5 weeks  VL UND
6/17/2015-9 weeks  VL UND AST 28 ALT 40
7/31/2015-15 weeks VL UND AST 27 ALT 39
9/22 Diagnosed with HCC
10/1-EOT
10/29-SVR4
12/23-SVR12
I AM HEPC FREE! :)

Offline Debula

  • Member
  • Posts: 257
  • "Your body hears everything your mind says"
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #30 on: May 11, 2015, 11:18:27 am »
Day 26 (3.5 weeks)

I feel pretty "normal". 
I did start having very loose stools as of Saturday but it could be a bug or something I ate?  Anyway. still feeling the same.  Not much different from before I started Harvoni.  Going for my 4 week labs on Thursday!

~ 142 days to go ~ (Last pill will be on Sept 30,2015)
Logged
80's DX: NonA,B
Non responder to Interferon
3/6/2015-GT 1a
VL-1920000 IU/mL
FibroSURE: Fibrosis stage F4 (0.79)
                  Necroinflammat activity A3 Severe (0.75)
AST 88,  ALT 120, Platelets 73
4/16/2015-Started Harvoni (24 weeks)
5/13/2015-4 weeks AST 26, ALT 36 
5/22/2015-5 weeks  VL UND
6/17/2015-9 weeks  VL UND AST 28 ALT 40
7/31/2015-15 weeks VL UND AST 27 ALT 39
9/22 Diagnosed with HCC
10/1-EOT
10/29-SVR4
12/23-SVR12
I AM HEPC FREE! :)

Offline Debula

  • Member
  • Posts: 257
  • "Your body hears everything your mind says"
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #31 on: May 14, 2015, 02:57:16 pm »
Today is the first day of bottle #2 (Day 29)
No changes.  I feel fine.  Still tired but what else is new
Yesterday I went for my 4 week blood draw and am anxious to see the progress I have made.
Bought some new toothbrushes too :)

139 days to go
Logged
80's DX: NonA,B
Non responder to Interferon
3/6/2015-GT 1a
VL-1920000 IU/mL
FibroSURE: Fibrosis stage F4 (0.79)
                  Necroinflammat activity A3 Severe (0.75)
AST 88,  ALT 120, Platelets 73
4/16/2015-Started Harvoni (24 weeks)
5/13/2015-4 weeks AST 26, ALT 36 
5/22/2015-5 weeks  VL UND
6/17/2015-9 weeks  VL UND AST 28 ALT 40
7/31/2015-15 weeks VL UND AST 27 ALT 39
9/22 Diagnosed with HCC
10/1-EOT
10/29-SVR4
12/23-SVR12
I AM HEPC FREE! :)

Offline KimInTheForest

  • Member
  • Posts: 1,972
  • Believe in yourself
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #32 on: May 14, 2015, 03:02:57 pm »
Congrats Debula! Great that you are having no sides. Keep on truckin'! :)

best,
kim
Logged
Kim Goldberg (Nanaimo, BC)
1970s: Contracted HCV (genotype 3a)
2015: Cured with Harvoni + ribavirin (12 weeks)
MY STORY: https://pigsquash.wordpress.com/2016/01/28/undetectable-my-hep-c-story/

Offline Lee

  • Member
  • Posts: 31
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #33 on: May 14, 2015, 04:20:11 pm »
Hi  Deb!

Let us know the results of your blood test!  Hope the numbers are really low or even undetected!  Good luck.

Lee
Logged
Female
Infected mid-1970's
Diagnosed 2013
Viral load prior to treatment: 6.6 million
Genotype: 1a
Started Harvoni: 4/20/15
Four week viral load: <20 too low to quantify
Eight week viral load: undetected

Offline Debula

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  • Posts: 257
  • "Your body hears everything your mind says"
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #34 on: May 14, 2015, 04:28:53 pm »
So was looking on the hospital lab website and I have some results!!
I don't know what I am suppose to be looking for other than ALT & AST & Platelets
VL will come back later but OH MAN what an improvement so far!!  Excited!! ;D :D
I would appreciate comments if you know how to read the rest of them (if they are relevant)   What is RBC? Can't wait for VL to come back!!! 

WBC [4.0-8.6 x10(3)/mcL] 5.2 x10(3)/mcL
(5/13/15 3:37 PM)
RBC [4.10-4.70 x10(6)/mcL] 4.00 x10(6)/mcL
*LOW*
(5/13/15 3:37 PM)
Hgb [12.2-15.4 gm/dL] 13.2 gm/dL
(5/13/15 3:37 PM)
HCT [37-43 %] 38 %
(5/13/15 3:37 PM)
Platelet [150-450 x10(3)/mcL] 72 x10(3)/mcL
*LOW*
(5/13/15 3:37 PM)
MCV [80-99 fL] 95 fL
(5/13/15 3:37 PM)
MCH [28.3-31.1 pg] 33.1 pg
*HI*
(5/13/15 3:37 PM)
MCHC [30-36 gm/dL] 35 gm/dL
(5/13/15 3:37 PM)
RDW [11.1-14.7 %] 12.5 %
(5/13/15 3:37 PM)
MPV [7.4-10.4 fL] 10.0 fL
(5/13/15 3:37 PM)
% Neutro [43-81 %] 46 %
(5/13/15 3:37 PM)
% Lymph [10-42 %] 43 %
*HI*
(5/13/15 3:37 PM)
% Mono [3-8 %] 8 %
(5/13/15 3:37 PM)
% Eos [0-6 %] 2 %
(5/13/15 3:37 PM)
% Basophil [0-1 %] 1 %
(5/13/15 3:37 PM)
# Neutro [1.8-7.0 x10(3)/mcL] 2.3 x10(3)/mcL
(5/13/15 3:37 PM)
# Lymph [1.2-4.0 x10(3)/mcL] 2.1 x10(3)/mcL
(5/13/15 3:37 PM)
# Mono [0.0-0.8 x10(3)/mcL] 0.4 x10(3)/mcL
(5/13/15 3:37 PM)
# Eos [0.0-0.6 x10(3)/mcL] 0.1 x10(3)/mcL
(5/13/15 3:37 PM)
# Basophil [0.0-0.0 x10(3)/mcL] 0.0 x10(3)/mcL
(5/13/15 3:37 PM)
Differential? Screen Only
(5/13/15 3:37 PM)
Glucose Lvl [60-100 mg/dL] 114 mg/dL
*HI*
(5/13/15 3:37 PM)
BUN [6-22 mg/dL] 13 mg/dL
(5/13/15 3:37 PM)
Creatinine Lvl [0.5-1.2 mg/dL] 0.8 mg/dL
(5/13/15 3:37 PM)
Total Protein [6.4-8.2 gm/dL] 8.3 gm/dL
*HI*
(5/13/15 3:37 PM)
Calcium Lvl [8.0-10.3 mg/dL] 9.1 mg/dL
(5/13/15 3:37 PM)
Bili Total [0.0-1.1 mg/dL] 0.4 mg/dL
(5/13/15 3:37 PM)
Sodium Lvl [134-146 mmol/L] 141 mmol/L
(5/13/15 3:37 PM)
Potassium Lvl [3.3-5.2 mmol/L] 4.4 mmol/L
(5/13/15 3:37 PM)
Chloride Lvl [99-113 mmol/L] 109 mmol/L
(5/13/15 3:37 PM)
CO2 [21-32 mmol/L] 25 mmol/L
(5/13/15 3:37 PM)
Alk Phos [47-117 unit/L] 73 unit/L
(5/13/15 3:37 PM)
AST [1-37 unit/L] 26 unit/L
(5/13/15 3:37 PM)
ALT [12-78 unit/L] 36 unit/L
(5/13/15 3:37 PM)
GFR, Estimated [>=60 mL/min] 74 mL/min
(5/13/15 3:37 PM)
Albumin Lvl [3.4-5.0 gm/dL] 3.6 gm/dL
(5/13/15 3:37 PM)
AGAP [5-15 mmol/L] 7 mmol/L
(5/13/15 3:37 PM)
« Last Edit: May 14, 2015, 04:44:23 pm by Debula »
Logged
80's DX: NonA,B
Non responder to Interferon
3/6/2015-GT 1a
VL-1920000 IU/mL
FibroSURE: Fibrosis stage F4 (0.79)
                  Necroinflammat activity A3 Severe (0.75)
AST 88,  ALT 120, Platelets 73
4/16/2015-Started Harvoni (24 weeks)
5/13/2015-4 weeks AST 26, ALT 36 
5/22/2015-5 weeks  VL UND
6/17/2015-9 weeks  VL UND AST 28 ALT 40
7/31/2015-15 weeks VL UND AST 27 ALT 39
9/22 Diagnosed with HCC
10/1-EOT
10/29-SVR4
12/23-SVR12
I AM HEPC FREE! :)

Offline Lee

  • Member
  • Posts: 31
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #35 on: May 14, 2015, 04:46:51 pm »
Hi Deb,

My doctor told me it takes a week for the viral load tests results - that is Kaiser Northern California - yours could be different.

I can't say much about most of the tests because I have always come back normal on all of them except ALT and AST which were always slightly elevated.  I was told that indicated chronic (long term) hepatitis.  So NORMAL for those tests is a GREAT result.  If your other tests were not normal before but are normal now, how can that anything but awesome!?

Let us know as soon as you find out your viral load.  Good luck!

Lee
Logged
Female
Infected mid-1970's
Diagnosed 2013
Viral load prior to treatment: 6.6 million
Genotype: 1a
Started Harvoni: 4/20/15
Four week viral load: <20 too low to quantify
Eight week viral load: undetected

Offline Debula

  • Member
  • Posts: 257
  • "Your body hears everything your mind says"
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #36 on: May 15, 2015, 09:32:19 am »
Hi Lee
Yeah I am very excited about ALT & AST !! And will for sure keep you posted on the VL
I know it took a week or two last time because they have to send it out. 
Was just curious if I should be looking at any of the other results too
YAY for improvement!!
Logged
80's DX: NonA,B
Non responder to Interferon
3/6/2015-GT 1a
VL-1920000 IU/mL
FibroSURE: Fibrosis stage F4 (0.79)
                  Necroinflammat activity A3 Severe (0.75)
AST 88,  ALT 120, Platelets 73
4/16/2015-Started Harvoni (24 weeks)
5/13/2015-4 weeks AST 26, ALT 36 
5/22/2015-5 weeks  VL UND
6/17/2015-9 weeks  VL UND AST 28 ALT 40
7/31/2015-15 weeks VL UND AST 27 ALT 39
9/22 Diagnosed with HCC
10/1-EOT
10/29-SVR4
12/23-SVR12
I AM HEPC FREE! :)

Offline morning_glory

  • Member
  • Posts: 104
  • This is the first day, of the rest of your life...
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #37 on: May 16, 2015, 07:49:42 pm »
Wow Deb!
Your ALT & AST are looking great, what awesome news! Looking forward to seeing your VL, I'm believing that will be much lower than before treatment, as well.  :)

Keep on posting your journey!

Blessings,
MG
Logged
Likely infected - mid 70's / Diagnosed - mid 90's
Geno type - 1a
AST - 45
ALT - 51
Viral Load - 435,120
Liver Biopsy 6/2004 - F1-2
Fibrosure 5/2011 - F1-2
Fibrosure 2/2014 - F-0
Treatment Naive, prior to Harvoni
Harvoni started on 5/16/15
8-week Treatment Completed (7/10/15)
4-week bloodwork (6/11/15) Undetected, AST 15, ALT 17
8-week bloodwork (7/13/15) Undetected, AST 14, ALT 16

Offline Debula

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  • Posts: 257
  • "Your body hears everything your mind says"
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #38 on: May 22, 2015, 04:10:47 pm »
So......
I went to pick up my labs today and was so happy to see UND
When I got home I looked closer only to find out that the lab screwed up and did HIV RNA INSTEAD OF HCV RNA!!!
Had to go back and get blood drawn again
Should know by the middle of next week
It made me mad that they can screw something this important up.
So my blood draw VL will be at 5 weeks instead of 4

I feel pretty normal no side effects

I will post back once I get VL
I hope everyone has a great weekend :)
Logged
80's DX: NonA,B
Non responder to Interferon
3/6/2015-GT 1a
VL-1920000 IU/mL
FibroSURE: Fibrosis stage F4 (0.79)
                  Necroinflammat activity A3 Severe (0.75)
AST 88,  ALT 120, Platelets 73
4/16/2015-Started Harvoni (24 weeks)
5/13/2015-4 weeks AST 26, ALT 36 
5/22/2015-5 weeks  VL UND
6/17/2015-9 weeks  VL UND AST 28 ALT 40
7/31/2015-15 weeks VL UND AST 27 ALT 39
9/22 Diagnosed with HCC
10/1-EOT
10/29-SVR4
12/23-SVR12
I AM HEPC FREE! :)

Offline svalles1130

  • Member
  • Posts: 5
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #39 on: May 22, 2015, 04:40:59 pm »
what a surprise, "the lab screwed up".  The whole health system appears to be in distress. Yesterday, I discovered that my third supply of harvoni would not be shipped because my doctor's office had not sent in my lab results yet, and after that was straightened out, the lab results were sent to another pharmacy. How about carrying 900 ccs of fluid in your lung for a whole year before my pulmonologist decided he wanted to know if I was carrying fluid in my lungs.  He could not understand why I could not sleep at night. Enough about me tho.  Hope your lab results come back showing you are undectable and that you never have to worry about hep c ever again. Looking forward to reading your lab results.
Logged

Offline morning_glory

  • Member
  • Posts: 104
  • This is the first day, of the rest of your life...
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #40 on: May 22, 2015, 05:42:15 pm »
Debula & svalles1130,

That is some really crazy stuff!!!  :o

It breaks my heart each time I hear & see how our "health" system is becoming more incompetent...one patient at a time.

Deb, keep us posted  :)

Everyone have a safe & relaxing Memorial weekend!
Logged
Likely infected - mid 70's / Diagnosed - mid 90's
Geno type - 1a
AST - 45
ALT - 51
Viral Load - 435,120
Liver Biopsy 6/2004 - F1-2
Fibrosure 5/2011 - F1-2
Fibrosure 2/2014 - F-0
Treatment Naive, prior to Harvoni
Harvoni started on 5/16/15
8-week Treatment Completed (7/10/15)
4-week bloodwork (6/11/15) Undetected, AST 15, ALT 17
8-week bloodwork (7/13/15) Undetected, AST 14, ALT 16

Offline Lynn K

  • Global Moderator
  • Member
  • Posts: 4,546
  • Get tested, get treated, get cured, fight Hep c!
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #41 on: May 23, 2015, 04:21:55 am »
Debula

RBC is red blood cell count. Yours is just very slightly low

Good luck on  treatment
Logged
Genotype 1a
1978 contracted, 1990 Dx
1995 Intron A failed
2001 Interferon Riba null response
2003 Pegintron Riba trial med null response
2008 F4 Cirrhosis Bx
2014 12 week Sov/Oly relapse
10/14 fibroscan 27 PLT 96
2014 24 weeks Harvoni 15 weeks Riba
5/4/15 EOT not detected, ALT 21, AST 20
4 week post not detected, ALT 26, AST 28
12 week post NOT DETECTED (07/27/15)
ALT 29, AST 27 PLT 92
24 week post NOT DETECTED! (10/19/15)
44 weeks (3/11/16)  fibroscan 33, PLT 111, HCV NOT DETECTED!
I AM FREE!

Offline sisterbland

  • Member
  • Posts: 18
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #42 on: May 24, 2015, 10:51:19 am »
Hello All,
I started Harvoni on 3/17/15 and have 2 1/2 weeks left of my 12 weeks - so excited!

For the last couple weeks my stomach issues have been worse. For 3 days last week I don't know if I may have picked up a flu bug or if it is due to the Harvoni but the "loose bowel" and gas was terrible. My doctor and the specialty pharmacist said I would take simethicone (gas-x) and that has helped a lot. My doctor also suggested probiotics which I will start on today.

It does seem to be easing up now, thank goodness. Of course I would thankfully endure any side effects to complete this treatment.

Best wishes to my fellow warriors!
-E
Logged
1987/88 Contracted HCV 1a (had acute HepA and HepB in the same 5 year period)
1997 Interferon/ribavirin 7 mo; relapser
3/17/15 Harvoni started, 12 wks
4/17/15 VL <15 IU/ML (Undetected)
6/11/15 Complete tx

Offline Debula

  • Member
  • Posts: 257
  • "Your body hears everything your mind says"
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #43 on: May 26, 2015, 07:19:41 pm »
Hi sisterbland
Yup I have that too on most days. :(. It's annoying but it also feels cleansing in way if you know what I mean.  Good luck and I hope the rest of your TX goes smoothly.

So today .. I got my results from the 5 week VL and I am UNDETECTED!!  Woo hoo!!
I wonder if the extra week because of their screw up helped.  I guess I'll never know and who cares anyway as long as I am UND!!

I have no real side effects to report.  Loose stools and an occasional headache is the extent of it so far. 

Light and blessings to all
We are gonna beat this thing!!
Deb

Logged
80's DX: NonA,B
Non responder to Interferon
3/6/2015-GT 1a
VL-1920000 IU/mL
FibroSURE: Fibrosis stage F4 (0.79)
                  Necroinflammat activity A3 Severe (0.75)
AST 88,  ALT 120, Platelets 73
4/16/2015-Started Harvoni (24 weeks)
5/13/2015-4 weeks AST 26, ALT 36 
5/22/2015-5 weeks  VL UND
6/17/2015-9 weeks  VL UND AST 28 ALT 40
7/31/2015-15 weeks VL UND AST 27 ALT 39
9/22 Diagnosed with HCC
10/1-EOT
10/29-SVR4
12/23-SVR12
I AM HEPC FREE! :)

Offline Lee

  • Member
  • Posts: 31
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #44 on: May 26, 2015, 07:31:08 pm »
Yahoo!!! :)
Logged
Female
Infected mid-1970's
Diagnosed 2013
Viral load prior to treatment: 6.6 million
Genotype: 1a
Started Harvoni: 4/20/15
Four week viral load: <20 too low to quantify
Eight week viral load: undetected

Offline Lynn K

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  • Member
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Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #45 on: May 27, 2015, 03:42:08 am »
Yay Debula!!!!!!!!!!

The big SVR 5 

Well all right, all right, all right :)
Logged
Genotype 1a
1978 contracted, 1990 Dx
1995 Intron A failed
2001 Interferon Riba null response
2003 Pegintron Riba trial med null response
2008 F4 Cirrhosis Bx
2014 12 week Sov/Oly relapse
10/14 fibroscan 27 PLT 96
2014 24 weeks Harvoni 15 weeks Riba
5/4/15 EOT not detected, ALT 21, AST 20
4 week post not detected, ALT 26, AST 28
12 week post NOT DETECTED (07/27/15)
ALT 29, AST 27 PLT 92
24 week post NOT DETECTED! (10/19/15)
44 weeks (3/11/16)  fibroscan 33, PLT 111, HCV NOT DETECTED!
I AM FREE!

Offline morning_glory

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  • This is the first day, of the rest of your life...
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #46 on: May 27, 2015, 08:36:15 am »
Deb,
Happy Woo-Hoo Dance!  :)

So, happy to hear the good news!

>>> GO TEAM, GO, TO ACHIEVING SVR! <<<

Blessings to all,
MG
Logged
Likely infected - mid 70's / Diagnosed - mid 90's
Geno type - 1a
AST - 45
ALT - 51
Viral Load - 435,120
Liver Biopsy 6/2004 - F1-2
Fibrosure 5/2011 - F1-2
Fibrosure 2/2014 - F-0
Treatment Naive, prior to Harvoni
Harvoni started on 5/16/15
8-week Treatment Completed (7/10/15)
4-week bloodwork (6/11/15) Undetected, AST 15, ALT 17
8-week bloodwork (7/13/15) Undetected, AST 14, ALT 16

Offline catladyx

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Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #47 on: May 27, 2015, 10:33:16 am »
I just took my first pill last night, 5/26. So far so good. We'll see what happens.
Logged
dx 2010
Geno 1a
probably infected 1992

Offline sisterbland

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  • Posts: 18
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #48 on: May 27, 2015, 11:59:46 am »
Congrats Debula! That is great news! YAY! ;D ;D ;D
Logged
1987/88 Contracted HCV 1a (had acute HepA and HepB in the same 5 year period)
1997 Interferon/ribavirin 7 mo; relapser
3/17/15 Harvoni started, 12 wks
4/17/15 VL <15 IU/ML (Undetected)
6/11/15 Complete tx

Offline Debula

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Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #49 on: May 27, 2015, 02:24:01 pm »
Quote from: catladyx on May 27, 2015, 10:33:16 am
I just took my first pill last night, 5/26. So far so good. We'll see what happens.

YAY for starting treatment.  hopefully it will go smoothly for you
How long will you be taking it?
Keep well and keep us posted

And thanks to all for the support and cheers!  It means a lot!
« Last Edit: May 27, 2015, 02:25:38 pm by Debula »
Logged
80's DX: NonA,B
Non responder to Interferon
3/6/2015-GT 1a
VL-1920000 IU/mL
FibroSURE: Fibrosis stage F4 (0.79)
                  Necroinflammat activity A3 Severe (0.75)
AST 88,  ALT 120, Platelets 73
4/16/2015-Started Harvoni (24 weeks)
5/13/2015-4 weeks AST 26, ALT 36 
5/22/2015-5 weeks  VL UND
6/17/2015-9 weeks  VL UND AST 28 ALT 40
7/31/2015-15 weeks VL UND AST 27 ALT 39
9/22 Diagnosed with HCC
10/1-EOT
10/29-SVR4
12/23-SVR12
I AM HEPC FREE! :)

Offline Debula

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Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #50 on: June 11, 2015, 10:48:51 am »
Today I start my 3rd bottle of Harvoni
The time just flew by (as it does)
I am feeling pretty good for the most part
I think my brain fog might be a little worse.  Ringing in the ears comes and goes (just like before TX)
Still have loose and pale stools
Itching is gone gone gone and I am super grateful for that!

Gonna see if I can get an order to do a blood draw tomorrow and that should put me back on track for 8 week blood draw.  Hopefully the lab won't screw it up this time again

I hope everyone is doing well
Keep well
Deb
Logged
80's DX: NonA,B
Non responder to Interferon
3/6/2015-GT 1a
VL-1920000 IU/mL
FibroSURE: Fibrosis stage F4 (0.79)
                  Necroinflammat activity A3 Severe (0.75)
AST 88,  ALT 120, Platelets 73
4/16/2015-Started Harvoni (24 weeks)
5/13/2015-4 weeks AST 26, ALT 36 
5/22/2015-5 weeks  VL UND
6/17/2015-9 weeks  VL UND AST 28 ALT 40
7/31/2015-15 weeks VL UND AST 27 ALT 39
9/22 Diagnosed with HCC
10/1-EOT
10/29-SVR4
12/23-SVR12
I AM HEPC FREE! :)

Offline Debula

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Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #51 on: June 15, 2015, 01:47:09 pm »
Started my 3rd bottle on June 11th and was hoping to get blood test order from doctor on Friday June 12th (That would have put me back on track to have an 8 week VL check) Doctor won't be in until Tue the 16th so I guess I am going to be testing at 5 weeks again
So instead of 4 and 8 weeks it will be closer to 5 and 10 weeks
Oh well...  as long as the VL is still UND I guess that is OK

My side effects are:
Mild to sever headaches.  They come and go as they please
light colored loose stools and gas (yes TMI) :-[
Fatigue (Don't know if this is a side because I had it before TX)
Brain fog (Also had this before TX)
Ringing in my ears (had before TX also)   

I hope everyone is doing well
Blessings
Deb
Logged
80's DX: NonA,B
Non responder to Interferon
3/6/2015-GT 1a
VL-1920000 IU/mL
FibroSURE: Fibrosis stage F4 (0.79)
                  Necroinflammat activity A3 Severe (0.75)
AST 88,  ALT 120, Platelets 73
4/16/2015-Started Harvoni (24 weeks)
5/13/2015-4 weeks AST 26, ALT 36 
5/22/2015-5 weeks  VL UND
6/17/2015-9 weeks  VL UND AST 28 ALT 40
7/31/2015-15 weeks VL UND AST 27 ALT 39
9/22 Diagnosed with HCC
10/1-EOT
10/29-SVR4
12/23-SVR12
I AM HEPC FREE! :)

Offline KimInTheForest

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Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #52 on: June 15, 2015, 03:00:37 pm »
Hang in there Debula! Sorry to hear about the headaches. I haven't had the 'pleasure' (haha!) of that particular side, but I know others here have. Good for you for being UND back at Week 5. In all likelihood that will continue, so it will all be worth it in the end. :)

I am at my halfway mark today - 6 weeks down, 6 more to go. I worry a bit about strain on my heart from low hemoglobin. (Be thankful you don't have Ribavirin added to the mix.) But other than that, no real problems. A little less energy as a result of low hemoglobin… but I still have MORE energy from all this than before I started treatment. So am really looking forward to what my life will be like once I am cured. The dry cough has been my primary persistent side effect during tx. Once again, Ribavirin-related.

best to you,
kim :
Logged
Kim Goldberg (Nanaimo, BC)
1970s: Contracted HCV (genotype 3a)
2015: Cured with Harvoni + ribavirin (12 weeks)
MY STORY: https://pigsquash.wordpress.com/2016/01/28/undetectable-my-hep-c-story/

Offline Debula

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  • "Your body hears everything your mind says"
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #53 on: June 17, 2015, 03:38:31 pm »
Hi Kim
I always look for your posts to see how you are doing and you always amaze me
I am so glad you are doing well despite having to take the Riba. (yes I am lucky!)

You are lucky that you have more energy!  I want that sooooo bad!  I am so tired all the time and this has been going on for far too long (not Harvoni related)

I also can't wait to see what my "new normal" will be after TX
I am going for blood draw after work today so we will see what the magic numbers are in a few days.  Hopefully still UND and lower ALT/AST levels

Hang in there and be well
Deb
Logged
80's DX: NonA,B
Non responder to Interferon
3/6/2015-GT 1a
VL-1920000 IU/mL
FibroSURE: Fibrosis stage F4 (0.79)
                  Necroinflammat activity A3 Severe (0.75)
AST 88,  ALT 120, Platelets 73
4/16/2015-Started Harvoni (24 weeks)
5/13/2015-4 weeks AST 26, ALT 36 
5/22/2015-5 weeks  VL UND
6/17/2015-9 weeks  VL UND AST 28 ALT 40
7/31/2015-15 weeks VL UND AST 27 ALT 39
9/22 Diagnosed with HCC
10/1-EOT
10/29-SVR4
12/23-SVR12
I AM HEPC FREE! :)

Offline Debula

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  • "Your body hears everything your mind says"
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #54 on: June 23, 2015, 10:01:54 am »
Just got my 9 week test results last night and very happy to report that I am still UND and ALT and AST are way down too (see signature line)
Not sure what "PROTEIN" levels are about but they are higher than normal
Should I be concerned?

No side effects to report. :)

Hope everyone is doing well

Deb
Logged
80's DX: NonA,B
Non responder to Interferon
3/6/2015-GT 1a
VL-1920000 IU/mL
FibroSURE: Fibrosis stage F4 (0.79)
                  Necroinflammat activity A3 Severe (0.75)
AST 88,  ALT 120, Platelets 73
4/16/2015-Started Harvoni (24 weeks)
5/13/2015-4 weeks AST 26, ALT 36 
5/22/2015-5 weeks  VL UND
6/17/2015-9 weeks  VL UND AST 28 ALT 40
7/31/2015-15 weeks VL UND AST 27 ALT 39
9/22 Diagnosed with HCC
10/1-EOT
10/29-SVR4
12/23-SVR12
I AM HEPC FREE! :)

Offline Debula

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  • "Your body hears everything your mind says"
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #55 on: June 25, 2015, 10:48:39 am »
So I found out about High protein levels so I don't think I should be too concerned
 
http://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/high-blood-protein/basics/definition/sym-20050599

High blood protein (hyperproteinemia) is an increase in the concentration of protein in the bloodstream. High blood protein is not a specific disease or condition in itself, but it might indicate you have a disease.

High blood protein rarely causes signs or symptoms on its own. But sometimes it is uncovered while you're having blood tests done as part of an evaluation for some other problem or symptom.
Possible causes of high blood protein include:
•Bone marrow disorder
•Multiple myeloma
•Amyloidosis
•Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance
•Chronic inflammatory conditions
•HIV/AIDS
•Dehydration (which may make blood proteins appear falsely elevated)

A high-protein diet doesn't cause high blood protein.

High blood protein is not a specific disease or condition in itself. It's usually a laboratory finding uncovered during the evaluation of a particular condition or symptom. For instance, although high blood protein is found in people who are dehydrated, the real problem is that the blood plasma is actually more concentrated.

Certain proteins in the blood may be elevated as your body fights an infection or some other inflammation. People with certain bone marrow diseases, such as multiple myeloma, may have high blood protein levels before they show any other symptoms.

The role of proteins

Proteins are large, complicated molecules that are vital to the function of all cells and tissues. They are made in many places throughout your body and circulate in the blood.

Proteins take a variety of forms — such as albumin, antibodies and enzymes — and have many different functions, including:
•Helping you fight disease
•Regulating body functions
•Building muscles
•Transporting drugs and other substances throughout the body

If your doctor discovers high blood protein during an evaluation, he or she may recommend additional tests to determine if there is an underlying problem.

A total protein test can determine whether you have high blood protein. Other more-specific tests can help determine where it's coming from, for instance, the liver or the bone marrow. A serum protein electrophoresis (SPEP) test measures individual blood proteins. It can reveal which specific protein type is causing your high blood protein levels. Your doctor may use a SPEP if he or she suspects you have a bone marrow disease

Logged
80's DX: NonA,B
Non responder to Interferon
3/6/2015-GT 1a
VL-1920000 IU/mL
FibroSURE: Fibrosis stage F4 (0.79)
                  Necroinflammat activity A3 Severe (0.75)
AST 88,  ALT 120, Platelets 73
4/16/2015-Started Harvoni (24 weeks)
5/13/2015-4 weeks AST 26, ALT 36 
5/22/2015-5 weeks  VL UND
6/17/2015-9 weeks  VL UND AST 28 ALT 40
7/31/2015-15 weeks VL UND AST 27 ALT 39
9/22 Diagnosed with HCC
10/1-EOT
10/29-SVR4
12/23-SVR12
I AM HEPC FREE! :)

Offline Debula

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  • "Your body hears everything your mind says"
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #56 on: June 25, 2015, 10:53:57 am »
Today is the 1st day of week 10

This week has not been the greatest
Not sure if I am coming down with something or what but I feel completely drained all the time
I can't say if this is Harvoni related or not because I have had these kinds of "spells" before TX
I have noticed more red blotches on my skin.  Maybe it is sun related?
The itching is still gone thank God

Still waiting for the day that I don't feel so tired

Logged
80's DX: NonA,B
Non responder to Interferon
3/6/2015-GT 1a
VL-1920000 IU/mL
FibroSURE: Fibrosis stage F4 (0.79)
                  Necroinflammat activity A3 Severe (0.75)
AST 88,  ALT 120, Platelets 73
4/16/2015-Started Harvoni (24 weeks)
5/13/2015-4 weeks AST 26, ALT 36 
5/22/2015-5 weeks  VL UND
6/17/2015-9 weeks  VL UND AST 28 ALT 40
7/31/2015-15 weeks VL UND AST 27 ALT 39
9/22 Diagnosed with HCC
10/1-EOT
10/29-SVR4
12/23-SVR12
I AM HEPC FREE! :)

Offline Debula

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  • "Your body hears everything your mind says"
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #57 on: July 08, 2015, 04:41:44 pm »
Today I finished my 3rd bottle of Harvoni
It is hump day and not because it is Wed :)

I am feeling OK and no side effects

3 more bottles to go and let's hope that I will be cured

Feeling scared and sad after reading so many relapse stories today~

Not sure if I will bother going back for VL test until EOT
I should have one this week for my 12 week draw but getting the order from the doc is just a pain every time. :(
« Last Edit: July 08, 2015, 04:45:45 pm by Debula »
Logged
80's DX: NonA,B
Non responder to Interferon
3/6/2015-GT 1a
VL-1920000 IU/mL
FibroSURE: Fibrosis stage F4 (0.79)
                  Necroinflammat activity A3 Severe (0.75)
AST 88,  ALT 120, Platelets 73
4/16/2015-Started Harvoni (24 weeks)
5/13/2015-4 weeks AST 26, ALT 36 
5/22/2015-5 weeks  VL UND
6/17/2015-9 weeks  VL UND AST 28 ALT 40
7/31/2015-15 weeks VL UND AST 27 ALT 39
9/22 Diagnosed with HCC
10/1-EOT
10/29-SVR4
12/23-SVR12
I AM HEPC FREE! :)

Offline KimInTheForest

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Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #58 on: July 08, 2015, 05:30:58 pm »
Congrats on reaching the halfway mark, Debula! I know that was a huge milestone for me. I actually felt more elated about reaching the halfway mark in treatment, than I did when I reached undetected at Week 4.

How is your energy? In your previous post you were experiencing low energy and tiredness. Any improvement there?

I am doing well overall, but my hemoglobin has dropped pretty low thanks to the ribavirin. (At least you don't have that to contend with). I am at 9.6 (96) hemoglobin right now. But I only have 20 more days to go. So I am hanging in there.

All the best to you, Deb! And just remember you are on your way to being cured in all likelihood - makes it all worth it.

kim :)
Logged
Kim Goldberg (Nanaimo, BC)
1970s: Contracted HCV (genotype 3a)
2015: Cured with Harvoni + ribavirin (12 weeks)
MY STORY: https://pigsquash.wordpress.com/2016/01/28/undetectable-my-hep-c-story/

Offline Debula

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  • "Your body hears everything your mind says"
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #59 on: August 05, 2015, 09:08:56 pm »
Hi Kim
Sorry I have not been in here for awhile.  I am hoping you are done by now
How are you feeling?
I still have low energy but I had that before Harvoni too :(
I'm sleeping a lot better and not needing my ambien which is really good
Yes thank God I didn't have to do RIBA  like you.  You are such a trooper and an inspiration to us all
I hope all is well
Gotta go catch up now :). Write back when you can
Be well
Deb
Logged
80's DX: NonA,B
Non responder to Interferon
3/6/2015-GT 1a
VL-1920000 IU/mL
FibroSURE: Fibrosis stage F4 (0.79)
                  Necroinflammat activity A3 Severe (0.75)
AST 88,  ALT 120, Platelets 73
4/16/2015-Started Harvoni (24 weeks)
5/13/2015-4 weeks AST 26, ALT 36 
5/22/2015-5 weeks  VL UND
6/17/2015-9 weeks  VL UND AST 28 ALT 40
7/31/2015-15 weeks VL UND AST 27 ALT 39
9/22 Diagnosed with HCC
10/1-EOT
10/29-SVR4
12/23-SVR12
I AM HEPC FREE! :)

Offline KimInTheForest

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Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #60 on: August 05, 2015, 09:19:47 pm »
Hi Debula. Yes, I finished treatment last week. My hemoglobin and red blood cells had dropped pretty low because of the ribavirin. I still do not have a lot of energy 9 days post-tx. I get winded easily and do not have the great mental clarity and stamina that I had during my early weeks of treatment when the virus had been eradicated but the anemia had not yet kicked in. Still, those early weeks of treatment gave me a glimpse of the life I can look forward to once my body rebounds from the hemolytic anemia caused by the ribavirin. :)

I was virus-free at Week 4 of treatment and continued that way up to end of treatment. Will continue to be checked of course in the weeks and months to come.

best to you,
kim :)
Logged
Kim Goldberg (Nanaimo, BC)
1970s: Contracted HCV (genotype 3a)
2015: Cured with Harvoni + ribavirin (12 weeks)
MY STORY: https://pigsquash.wordpress.com/2016/01/28/undetectable-my-hep-c-story/

Offline Debula

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  • "Your body hears everything your mind says"
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #61 on: August 05, 2015, 09:34:22 pm »
Best to you too!  I hope you start feeling better soon
How long will it take for the anemia to clear up?
Logged
80's DX: NonA,B
Non responder to Interferon
3/6/2015-GT 1a
VL-1920000 IU/mL
FibroSURE: Fibrosis stage F4 (0.79)
                  Necroinflammat activity A3 Severe (0.75)
AST 88,  ALT 120, Platelets 73
4/16/2015-Started Harvoni (24 weeks)
5/13/2015-4 weeks AST 26, ALT 36 
5/22/2015-5 weeks  VL UND
6/17/2015-9 weeks  VL UND AST 28 ALT 40
7/31/2015-15 weeks VL UND AST 27 ALT 39
9/22 Diagnosed with HCC
10/1-EOT
10/29-SVR4
12/23-SVR12
I AM HEPC FREE! :)

Offline KimInTheForest

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  • Believe in yourself
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #62 on: August 06, 2015, 12:51:51 am »
Quote from: Debula on August 05, 2015, 09:34:22 pm
Best to you too!  I hope you start feeling better soon
How long will it take for the anemia to clear up?

Someone on these forums got back into the normal range on her hemoglobin just 10 days after treatment. For others it can take a month or longer. I now realize it would have been wise for me to do everything possible to start treatment with my hemoglobin and red blood cells as high as possible (within the normal range) so that when they fell, they might have still stayed normal. I started treatment at the very lowest end of normal for Hgb and RBCs, so as soon as they dropped at all, they were sub-normal. My Hgb only dropped 23 g/L during my 12-week treatment (from 119 at start to 96 at lowest point). Other people drop much more. But if they start at high end of normal, they may still be in normal range even with a bigger drop.

Basically feeling okay. Just impatient to have all the new energy and mental clarity I think I will have when the anemia resolves.

kim
Logged
Kim Goldberg (Nanaimo, BC)
1970s: Contracted HCV (genotype 3a)
2015: Cured with Harvoni + ribavirin (12 weeks)
MY STORY: https://pigsquash.wordpress.com/2016/01/28/undetectable-my-hep-c-story/

Offline Debula

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  • "Your body hears everything your mind says"
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #63 on: August 11, 2015, 11:04:57 am »
8/11- Nothing new to report.  Messed up on taking my blood at the "right time" but
other than that at 15 weeks I am still UND.
I feel OK.
Mostly tired as usual and I still get those liver "pains" pangs
Ears are still ringing and vision is blurry.  I sleep a lot better and no need for Ambien anymore
Itching is still gone (Thank God!)  If I could just get some energy I think everything would be good.  BUT not complaining this treatment is a walk in the park compared to Interferon.
Looking at my calendar I should take my last pill on October 7th.  I don't know how I calculated it originally and thought it would be the end of October.  Oh yeah and the brain fog has not lifted at all :(

Kim I can't wait to hear how you feel once the anemia is gone
I am hoping for tons of energy and everlasting SVR for you :)
Deb
« Last Edit: August 11, 2015, 11:10:06 am by Debula »
Logged
80's DX: NonA,B
Non responder to Interferon
3/6/2015-GT 1a
VL-1920000 IU/mL
FibroSURE: Fibrosis stage F4 (0.79)
                  Necroinflammat activity A3 Severe (0.75)
AST 88,  ALT 120, Platelets 73
4/16/2015-Started Harvoni (24 weeks)
5/13/2015-4 weeks AST 26, ALT 36 
5/22/2015-5 weeks  VL UND
6/17/2015-9 weeks  VL UND AST 28 ALT 40
7/31/2015-15 weeks VL UND AST 27 ALT 39
9/22 Diagnosed with HCC
10/1-EOT
10/29-SVR4
12/23-SVR12
I AM HEPC FREE! :)

Offline Debula

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  • Posts: 257
  • "Your body hears everything your mind says"
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #64 on: August 12, 2015, 11:53:03 am »
Today is the end of week 16
Tomorrow I start week 17 and I have to say I am having some liver "pain"
The pang is pretty annoying and has got me worried, it also seems to radiate all the way to my upper back.  Maybe I am having some of the side effects that people have mentioned in the 17th week?  (hopefully not)
That is about the only thing concerning me now and I feel a little scared that my liver has had enough and will start failing.   I am trying to stay positive though and hope for the best. (Just a sinking feeling that my days may be numbered)  I have an ultrasound scheduled for Aug 27th so I guess we shall see what we see then.
In the meantime the symptoms are pain in my upper right side right under my ribs that radiates to my back and a full bloated feeling like I almost can't take a full deep breath.
Anyway week 16 is over and only 8 more weeks to go!! Woo hoo time really did fly
 
Logged
80's DX: NonA,B
Non responder to Interferon
3/6/2015-GT 1a
VL-1920000 IU/mL
FibroSURE: Fibrosis stage F4 (0.79)
                  Necroinflammat activity A3 Severe (0.75)
AST 88,  ALT 120, Platelets 73
4/16/2015-Started Harvoni (24 weeks)
5/13/2015-4 weeks AST 26, ALT 36 
5/22/2015-5 weeks  VL UND
6/17/2015-9 weeks  VL UND AST 28 ALT 40
7/31/2015-15 weeks VL UND AST 27 ALT 39
9/22 Diagnosed with HCC
10/1-EOT
10/29-SVR4
12/23-SVR12
I AM HEPC FREE! :)

Offline KimInTheForest

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Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #65 on: August 12, 2015, 12:11:23 pm »
Congrats on being 2/3 of the way through your journey, Deb! I had some liver "pangs" toward the end of my 12 weeks of Harvoni+Riba, which surprised me since virus was long-gone by then. I thought it was my liver reacting to the accumulation of drugs in my body at that point. But my doctor thought it was not liver-related or treatment-related. I hope your ultrasound on aug 27th gives you the all-clear! :)

kim
Logged
Kim Goldberg (Nanaimo, BC)
1970s: Contracted HCV (genotype 3a)
2015: Cured with Harvoni + ribavirin (12 weeks)
MY STORY: https://pigsquash.wordpress.com/2016/01/28/undetectable-my-hep-c-story/

Offline Debula

  • Member
  • Posts: 257
  • "Your body hears everything your mind says"
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #66 on: September 03, 2015, 03:04:44 pm »
Today I start my last bottle (21st week)
I also just received bad news :(
My last ultra sound shows a 5cm tumor on my liver (about 2 inches)
So one more thing to worry about :(
I have to have an MRI to get a better look I guess?
Hoping it is not cancer.  Am trying to be positive and not freak out but it is hard
One day at a time -hopefully I can beat this no matter what it is
Will update my little diary here once I know more
Logged
80's DX: NonA,B
Non responder to Interferon
3/6/2015-GT 1a
VL-1920000 IU/mL
FibroSURE: Fibrosis stage F4 (0.79)
                  Necroinflammat activity A3 Severe (0.75)
AST 88,  ALT 120, Platelets 73
4/16/2015-Started Harvoni (24 weeks)
5/13/2015-4 weeks AST 26, ALT 36 
5/22/2015-5 weeks  VL UND
6/17/2015-9 weeks  VL UND AST 28 ALT 40
7/31/2015-15 weeks VL UND AST 27 ALT 39
9/22 Diagnosed with HCC
10/1-EOT
10/29-SVR4
12/23-SVR12
I AM HEPC FREE! :)

Offline Debula

  • Member
  • Posts: 257
  • "Your body hears everything your mind says"
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #67 on: October 01, 2015, 11:41:56 am »
Today is my last day of Harvoni (24 weeks flew by)
Yesterday should have been the last day but I screwed up last week and didn't take my pill one day.
I will get my VL tested on week 4 after EOT
Now I have to deal with liver cancer since the MRI shows hepatocellular carcinoma
So one chapter ends and the other begins.
I wonder if I will beat this......
Logged
80's DX: NonA,B
Non responder to Interferon
3/6/2015-GT 1a
VL-1920000 IU/mL
FibroSURE: Fibrosis stage F4 (0.79)
                  Necroinflammat activity A3 Severe (0.75)
AST 88,  ALT 120, Platelets 73
4/16/2015-Started Harvoni (24 weeks)
5/13/2015-4 weeks AST 26, ALT 36 
5/22/2015-5 weeks  VL UND
6/17/2015-9 weeks  VL UND AST 28 ALT 40
7/31/2015-15 weeks VL UND AST 27 ALT 39
9/22 Diagnosed with HCC
10/1-EOT
10/29-SVR4
12/23-SVR12
I AM HEPC FREE! :)

Offline KimInTheForest

  • Member
  • Posts: 1,972
  • Believe in yourself
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #68 on: October 01, 2015, 11:47:56 am »
Good luck Debula, and CONGRATS on reaching the end of your treatment journey for Hep C!!!

best,
kim :)
Logged
Kim Goldberg (Nanaimo, BC)
1970s: Contracted HCV (genotype 3a)
2015: Cured with Harvoni + ribavirin (12 weeks)
MY STORY: https://pigsquash.wordpress.com/2016/01/28/undetectable-my-hep-c-story/

Offline Cal

  • Member
  • Posts: 957
  • Cal on Viekira Pak
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #69 on: October 01, 2015, 07:12:27 pm »
Well done Debula,
EOT and UND. Good work. Now the cancer. Very much depends on how much and the location. You may get TACE, which is much nicer than chemo. There are many option fir HCC now. I am sure you have the guts to beat it my love. I have friends who have. Without the virus you are in a much easier place treatment wise. Cal :)
Logged
HCV 30 years. Geno 1A.
Veikira Pak with ribas on Compassionate Access.
Brisbane. Australia. began 21.8.15.
17 weeks.  Previous non responder 2011.
V/L 9 million
2 week V/L 54
12 weeks V/L UND
No 17 week  EOT V/L
EOT Post 4 weeks UND.

Offline Debula

  • Member
  • Posts: 257
  • "Your body hears everything your mind says"
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #70 on: December 29, 2015, 01:30:07 pm »
Finally I am SVR12 woot!

So..... since my last post............
I have been diagnosed with HCC (primary liver cancer)
While doing more tests to make sure I don't have cancer elsewhere they have found that I have lesions in my lungs. I am hopefully having a lung biopsy on Jan 31,2015
Originally the plan was to have surgery and remove the tumor but now they don't know what they will do until we have the lung biopsy results.  Waiting and waiting and more waiting....
I will be posting in this (more relevant thread) http://forums.hepmag.com/index.php?topic=1406.msg36558#msg36558 to keep track of this new and very scary journey
Logged
80's DX: NonA,B
Non responder to Interferon
3/6/2015-GT 1a
VL-1920000 IU/mL
FibroSURE: Fibrosis stage F4 (0.79)
                  Necroinflammat activity A3 Severe (0.75)
AST 88,  ALT 120, Platelets 73
4/16/2015-Started Harvoni (24 weeks)
5/13/2015-4 weeks AST 26, ALT 36 
5/22/2015-5 weeks  VL UND
6/17/2015-9 weeks  VL UND AST 28 ALT 40
7/31/2015-15 weeks VL UND AST 27 ALT 39
9/22 Diagnosed with HCC
10/1-EOT
10/29-SVR4
12/23-SVR12
I AM HEPC FREE! :)

Offline KimInTheForest

  • Member
  • Posts: 1,972
  • Believe in yourself
Re: Today is the Day! (4/16/2015) Starting Harvoni this evening
« Reply #71 on: December 29, 2015, 02:13:47 pm »
So sorry to hear about your ongoing issues with getting a treatment plan for the HCC and lung biopsy, Deb.

But HUGE CONGRATS on your SVR12! :)

kim
Logged
Kim Goldberg (Nanaimo, BC)
1970s: Contracted HCV (genotype 3a)
2015: Cured with Harvoni + ribavirin (12 weeks)
MY STORY: https://pigsquash.wordpress.com/2016/01/28/undetectable-my-hep-c-story/
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