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Author Topic: Anyone more hungry?  (Read 45880 times)

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Offline Espo2

  • Member
  • Posts: 30
  • Needle stick at work 1987, 1b
Anyone more hungry?
« on: March 27, 2015, 09:22:05 am »
2 weeks into Harvoni. Find myself hungry when not normal before. Food tastes better. gained 3lbs.not good for us girls!  Metamucil may curb appetite as antacid not allowed. Headache on and off continue. Chilly n a little achey. Notice my eyes a little sparkley ???

Offline chino1969

  • Member
  • Posts: 117
Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #1 on: March 27, 2015, 10:28:39 am »
I noticed being hungry as well; I'm a guy.  Started working out again to offset any weight gain.

Offline atomic dog

  • Member
  • Posts: 160
Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #2 on: March 27, 2015, 11:12:38 am »
I've gained 2 pounds. My sweet tooth really kicked in. No trying to get my diet under control.
Infected 1969, dirty needle
Geno 1a
Stage 2 fib, some necrosis
TX naive
1/29/15 ALT61; AST43
2/16/15 Started Harvoni; VL 1.5 m;
2/19/15 ALT40; AST24
2/29/15 ALT29; AST25
3/9/15 ALT28; AST25; 
3/9/15 < 20 IU/mL (3 wks) HCV RNA remains 'detected'
3/24/15 ALT30; AST25;
3/24/15 <20 IU/mL (5 wks) HCV RNA
4/10/15 <20 IU/ml (7 weeks) HCV RNA
4/20/15 ALT36; AST27
4/20/15 UND
5/11/15 UND (EOT); ALT33; AST25
6/11/15 UND; ALT 34; AST 29
8/14/15 UND
11/15/15 SVR, 24-wk EOT

Offline Perca05

  • Member
  • Posts: 12
Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #3 on: March 27, 2015, 11:19:38 am »
Yes!  Me too!  I have been craving sweets way more than I normally do, and have found myself doing more 'snacking' during the day.   Ugh...hope I don't gain pounds while I'm losing virus.  :)

Offline Espo2

  • Member
  • Posts: 30
  • Needle stick at work 1987, 1b
Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #4 on: March 27, 2015, 11:24:17 am »
Ate 6 small cookies last nite, so unusual for me. Fiancé drinks Metamucil at nite to ward off munchies at nite. Will try tonite. Hope that's ok w doc. No vitamins, no wine, water,water,water... Maybe that's the culprit, washing out sugar too?

Offline Mike

  • Member
  • Posts: 999
Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #5 on: March 27, 2015, 11:28:24 am »
Chug plenty of water which can help with side effects and hungry cravings.

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

Offline flipflops

  • Member
  • Posts: 10
Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #6 on: March 27, 2015, 01:26:04 pm »
very interesting, I am on day 5 of Harvoni and at day 2 I could have eaten everything in site, fortunately that has subsided. I normally run on the hot side and have been chilly, had the space heater in my office on today, where I would be opening the window. I have never drank so much water in my life, I can definitely tell the difference when I need to drink more, I get a mild headache, drink more and it goes away.  Its all good though!

Offline C-FIGHTER

  • Member
  • Posts: 43
Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #7 on: March 27, 2015, 04:31:00 pm »
I have noticed the same.  the First 6 days I had a sweet tooth big time, I was hungry. it  seems to have subsided and my appetite returned to normal, at least for now.

My mouth gets very dry which makes me think the Harvoni dehydrates.  it would explain a lot of the side effects, nausea, headache, fatigue, dry skin, all symptoms of dehydration. So I just drink a lot of water and everything seems to be fine.
diagnosed 2010 Hep C
genotype 1b
HCV RNA >4000000 01/13/2015
F0-F1 04/2014
Harvoni March 20 2015 - June 11 - 12 weeks

April 14-Day 26 on Harvoni- Viral Load - UD
ALT 27    AST 27

Offline Johnny_Wayne

  • Member
  • Posts: 47
Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #8 on: March 29, 2015, 06:41:08 pm »
I gained 23 pounds while on Harvoni for 12 weeks. And this is 23 pounds gained on healthy stuff like apples, chicken breast, plain fish and rice. Yes, I had an insatiable appetite while on Harvoni.
« Last Edit: March 29, 2015, 08:48:18 pm by Johnny_Wayne »
Diagnosed 04/2014
Started Harvoni 10/2014
Undetectable 01/2015
Relapsed 04/2015
F4 Cirrhosis (Compensated - barely)
Child Pugh Score 6-7
MELD Score 10
Started Olysio/Sovaldi/Ribavirin (24 weeks)
EOT Not Detected 11/9/2016
--------------------------------
5-10-2017
Virus undetected SVR 24 Achieved
I AM FINALLY CURED!

Offline EyeSea BlueSky

  • Member
  • Posts: 9
Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #9 on: March 29, 2015, 08:44:13 pm »
Same thing is happening to me, I want to snack all the time.  And my craving is more for sweets than before Harvoni.  I am 2 weeks into treatment and have noticed a big appetite increase.  My theory at first on this was that the Harvoni is working already and my liver is starting to function more normally.  For the last several years, I have not been able to feel normal hunger, just did could not feel when it should be time to eat.  Sometimes I would just have to make myself eat, and then I would find out I was ravenous because it had been so long since I had last eaten.  It was weird, my wife was always reminding me that I need to eat even if I wasn't hungry.  No more reminders needed!  I hope this is a side effect that will deminish over time or that it is my natural appetite returning and I just need to get control of it.   I agree that drinking lots of water helps, but even then I have the urge to snack often. 
Live each day as if it's your first. The wonder is there, just find it!

Offline mspatnc

  • Member
  • Posts: 3
Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #10 on: March 30, 2015, 02:11:44 pm »
I can totally relate.  My sister and my caretaker stayed on me to eat but I simply could not.  About 3 days after starting Harvoni, somebody had to go to the grocery store.
I never wanted a complete meal.  Now, I want it all, meals, snacks, and the hind end of a elephant. lol  Sure hope it levels out and I don't end up looking like the hind end of that elephant. :)
Even after 2 short weeks, I feel much better and can tell a big difference.  Hardly any depression, fatigue or complete misery that I've suffered for several years.
I am elated and so grateful to God.  I'm 74 years old and only wish I could have had this 10 years ago...like hoping it's not too late for me to enjoy being well for a few more years.  I'm not worried much about getting a few lbs. over weight.  I'll enjoy the food and the feeling good and when treatment is all over, I'll get serious about dropping a few lbs. or whatever is necessary.

I have had absolutely no side effects yet...just wonder if they can start as I  continue treatment.  If they do, I can handle that too.  LOOKING FORWARD TO BEING WELL.

I  Love this Forum and thank you to whomever is responsible.  If I  post too much or get too chatty, someone please let me know.

Hugz to All
Pat

Offline WaltFrazier

  • Member
  • Posts: 30
Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #11 on: March 30, 2015, 04:45:02 pm »
I agree with the increase in appetite.  I've put on 10 pounds.  Drink 60% body weight in oz of water.  If I don't headache starts, drink water and it goes away.  I also just had the chills/shakes really bad.  1 night.  Reminded me of Interferon/ribavirin daze.  Not sure if it was a bug but I also am normally hot and not so much since on harvoni.  Just started jogging again, otherwise I feel like I would put on another 10 pounds!  Food...Food...water...water...  All is good..
54 Y-O Genotype 1a Since 1987
TX 2007 48 Weeks INTFR + RIBR ..Hell!
Week 62 Relapse
On Harvoni 12 week
4 Week Undetected!

Offline Tpropane

  • Member
  • Posts: 65
  • Heal the past by living in the present.
Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #12 on: March 30, 2015, 08:28:57 pm »
SWEET TOOTH! for sure. Rather try and stick to fruit and lay off the dairy and wheat. But had a big latte and almond croissant today and it was heaven. Balance. Broccoli and grilled chicken for dinner.
Hep C 1A / TT diagnosed 2009
Non Responder Boceprevir/riba/peg 2011
F-4 Cirrhosis
TX Harvoni 24 weeks started 1/20/15
2 week labs VL 174!
4 week labs UNDETECTED !
8 week labs UNDETECTED !

Offline Getting well

  • Member
  • Posts: 47
  • Unsure when acquired
Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #13 on: March 30, 2015, 08:40:51 pm »
I, too, am experiencing an increased appetite.  However, I think it is just me becoming normal. Just as I've seen some others post, for years I had no appetite and just couldn't force myself to eat. I am thrilled to want to eat again.

And the mental fog? Gone,  gone, gone.

I'm 60 and now I think I may still have a life. I had almost given up, just not wanting to be in pain and feel really sick all the time.

Harvoni,  so far, is truly a miracle for me and I've been on it only 13 days.
1a
Began Harvoni 03/18/2015
AST 90
ALT 90
VL 1.9 mil
F1-F2
Never treated before


UNDETECTED AT 4 WEEKS
on 8 week treatment

Offline BubbaT

  • Member
  • Posts: 267
Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #14 on: March 30, 2015, 09:25:24 pm »
Yep, I noticed the sweet tooth, but even before starting Harvoni, for years the only time I felt well was after a good nutritious meal, I found that your total well being is tied to your liver and good food, the more nutrients the better, salmon, brown rice, and salads, then yogurt and chocolate .... Lots of choclate ...Ok, not lots!

Low salt soups, lots of fruits, apples, grapes, banana, oranges,

haven any of you have blurred vision during certain times? I'm thinking this is glucose related, 

I have noticed that when I eat a poor nutrient meal, that I feel bad after, how many others noticed this also?
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 Espo2

  • Member
  • Posts: 30
  • Needle stick at work 1987, 1b
Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #15 on: March 31, 2015, 08:39:47 am »
I, too, am experiencing an increased appetite.  However, I think it is just me becoming normal. Just as I've seen some others post, for years I had no appetite and just couldn't force myself to eat. I am thrilled to want to eat again.

And the mental fog? Gone,  gone, gone.

I'm 60 and now I think I may still have a life. I had almost given up, just not wanting to be in pain and feel really sick all the time.

Harvoni,  so far, is truly a miracle for me and I've been on it only 13 days.

Offline Espo2

  • Member
  • Posts: 30
  • Needle stick at work 1987, 1b
Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #16 on: March 31, 2015, 08:55:45 am »
Thank you for replies about hunger, and your experiences. Doc told me to take at bedtime. Wonder if it causes headache in morning. Next week I turn 60, didn't plan on a long life,Interferon hurt my heart and nearly took me out.  this changes the game, still pinching myself that this drug exists. Feel bad for people that have to mortgage the drug. Hope price comes down. Hope I can afford my golden years, new problem. God got me this far, we're all still here to do this treatment! Faith!

Offline atomic dog

  • Member
  • Posts: 160
Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #17 on: April 01, 2015, 12:26:11 am »
I'm stuffing my face right now. Gained 10 pounds since treatment started seven weeks ago. Kripes!
Infected 1969, dirty needle
Geno 1a
Stage 2 fib, some necrosis
TX naive
1/29/15 ALT61; AST43
2/16/15 Started Harvoni; VL 1.5 m;
2/19/15 ALT40; AST24
2/29/15 ALT29; AST25
3/9/15 ALT28; AST25; 
3/9/15 < 20 IU/mL (3 wks) HCV RNA remains 'detected'
3/24/15 ALT30; AST25;
3/24/15 <20 IU/mL (5 wks) HCV RNA
4/10/15 <20 IU/ml (7 weeks) HCV RNA
4/20/15 ALT36; AST27
4/20/15 UND
5/11/15 UND (EOT); ALT33; AST25
6/11/15 UND; ALT 34; AST 29
8/14/15 UND
11/15/15 SVR, 24-wk EOT

Offline Ledoc01

  • Member
  • Posts: 37
Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #18 on: April 01, 2015, 02:15:33 am »
I took my first Harvoni on 2/22; I've gained at least 15 lbs so far. If it slows down long enough for me too get a fork in it it's mine. For those few things I find inedible...I just add sugar and it's good to go.

Offline Getting well

  • Member
  • Posts: 47
  • Unsure when acquired
Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #19 on: April 01, 2015, 09:27:51 am »
I take Harvoni first thing in the morning, fasting.

While I am still seeing an increased appetite, I am using that as a sprng board to eat more nutritious food. The past few years I felt too bad to eat and practically lived on sweet drinks, a snack cake or canned soup, the things I wouldn't touch before I became so ill, due to the convenience. Now I am well enough to shop for food, bring it home and cook it.

I feel like I am getting a second chance at life.

I was hoping I would die. Not because I was suicidal but because I didn't want to suffer any more.  This is truly a miracle for me.
1a
Began Harvoni 03/18/2015
AST 90
ALT 90
VL 1.9 mil
F1-F2
Never treated before


UNDETECTED AT 4 WEEKS
on 8 week treatment

Offline Blue

  • Member
  • Posts: 16
Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #20 on: April 02, 2015, 09:43:54 pm »
Wow, this thread makes me laugh!  I thought it was just me.  I'm up 10 lbs. and I just started my 9th week.  I will eat anything in sight!  Craving sweets.  I've been pretty active too....daily workout, hiking, just came home from my tennis league.  I've never had trouble maintaining my weight.  Food tastes so good.

I too have had chills, especially cold feet and one shaking episode when I felt so cold and couldn't warm up.   

Mostly feeling good & optimistic!
______________________________________
Genotype 1b, VL 4.8m, stage 1
Interferon/Ribavirin nonresponder 2003
Started Harvoni 2/5/15
@ 4 weeks <15 HVC detected
Genotype 1b, VL 4.8m, stage 1
Interferon/Ribavirin nonresponder 2003
Started Harvoni 2/5/15
@ 4 weeks <15 Detected
@ 8 weeks    Not Detected
@ 12 weeks  Not Detected
@12 weeks after end of treatment    Not Detected

Offline atomic dog

  • Member
  • Posts: 160
Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #21 on: April 02, 2015, 10:11:35 pm »
I could barely get into my Levi's this morning. Sheeesh.
Infected 1969, dirty needle
Geno 1a
Stage 2 fib, some necrosis
TX naive
1/29/15 ALT61; AST43
2/16/15 Started Harvoni; VL 1.5 m;
2/19/15 ALT40; AST24
2/29/15 ALT29; AST25
3/9/15 ALT28; AST25; 
3/9/15 < 20 IU/mL (3 wks) HCV RNA remains 'detected'
3/24/15 ALT30; AST25;
3/24/15 <20 IU/mL (5 wks) HCV RNA
4/10/15 <20 IU/ml (7 weeks) HCV RNA
4/20/15 ALT36; AST27
4/20/15 UND
5/11/15 UND (EOT); ALT33; AST25
6/11/15 UND; ALT 34; AST 29
8/14/15 UND
11/15/15 SVR, 24-wk EOT

Offline Ledoc01

  • Member
  • Posts: 37
Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #22 on: April 03, 2015, 01:14:50 pm »
LOL atomic-dog; I opted for sweat pants today. Indeed, we share some similar stuff.

Oh yeah...I was detected (they used the wording "weak positive") at week 4 <12


Offline maggie

  • Member
  • Posts: 3
Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #23 on: April 03, 2015, 05:54:36 pm »
First time logging in, just had to reply to those noticing an appetite increase.  I'm trying to be very careful, but have managed to gain 2 lbs in the 2 weeks since I started 8 week Harvoni treatment.  Glad to know I'm not alone!  I've been battling fatigue, headache not bad but pretty constant and water does help. 

Offline Blue

  • Member
  • Posts: 16
Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #24 on: April 03, 2015, 07:50:15 pm »
Getting Well......I'm glad you are feeling better and feel like you have a second chance.  Harvoni is hopefully giving all of us a chance to reset and write a new healthier chapter. 

atomic dog and Ledoc01......makes me laugh, struggling to get into Levi's and chosing sweat pants.  Well, I am putting down the muffin and I'm going to get some control.  I'm going to do it.

Ledoc01.....I've never seen the wording "weak positive".  You're one smidge away from undetected.  I was detected<15 at 4 weeks and today I got my 8 week labs....bumped to undetected.  Happy about that.  Hoping that for all soon!

Welcome Maggie!


______________________________________
Genotype 1b, VL 4.8m, stage 1
Interferon/Ribavirin nonresponder 2003
Started Harvoni 2/5/15
@ 4 weeks <15 HVC Detected
@ 8 weeks   HCV Not Detected
Genotype 1b, VL 4.8m, stage 1
Interferon/Ribavirin nonresponder 2003
Started Harvoni 2/5/15
@ 4 weeks <15 Detected
@ 8 weeks    Not Detected
@ 12 weeks  Not Detected
@12 weeks after end of treatment    Not Detected

Offline Ledoc01

  • Member
  • Posts: 37
Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #25 on: April 04, 2015, 09:47:07 am »
Greetings and welcome Maggie.

@Blue; congrats on your 8 week results. I too had not previously seen or heard of "weak positive" as a value. I wonder what it is that is driving this appetite though...especially the sweet tooth. I stocked up on veggies and no fattening stuff last night though; I'm now officially 1/2 way there but good grief...there is no way I can allow this weight gain to continue at this rate LOL.

Offline Kim

  • Member
  • Posts: 34
Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #26 on: April 05, 2015, 12:32:21 am »
Absolutely I noticed an increased appetite - especially for sweets! Glad to know I am not alone. Today is EOT - Yipee! Lab draws in 2 weeks.

Offline atomic dog

  • Member
  • Posts: 160
Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #27 on: April 05, 2015, 12:53:59 am »
Wait a minute! Did someone say, "muffins!!!"
Infected 1969, dirty needle
Geno 1a
Stage 2 fib, some necrosis
TX naive
1/29/15 ALT61; AST43
2/16/15 Started Harvoni; VL 1.5 m;
2/19/15 ALT40; AST24
2/29/15 ALT29; AST25
3/9/15 ALT28; AST25; 
3/9/15 < 20 IU/mL (3 wks) HCV RNA remains 'detected'
3/24/15 ALT30; AST25;
3/24/15 <20 IU/mL (5 wks) HCV RNA
4/10/15 <20 IU/ml (7 weeks) HCV RNA
4/20/15 ALT36; AST27
4/20/15 UND
5/11/15 UND (EOT); ALT33; AST25
6/11/15 UND; ALT 34; AST 29
8/14/15 UND
11/15/15 SVR, 24-wk EOT

Offline kate0b1

  • Member
  • Posts: 293
Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #28 on: April 05, 2015, 07:21:43 am »
@atomic dog yes with sugar on top please lol i will be living in sweats from now on apparently, i don't own a scale but i do know what fits  ;D

kate

Offline Blue

  • Member
  • Posts: 16
Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #29 on: April 05, 2015, 06:28:18 pm »
 Gilead is going to have to add this in as a side effect!  Be prepared to manage your muffin intake.

Kim, good luck with the EOT labs!

Really, there must be some explanation for the increased appetite and sweet tooth.  People sometimes see me as a bit of a health nut since I eat supper healthy so this increase isn't because I'm making poor food choices.  I'm drinking tons too.

Oh well, it's time for dessert.
Genotype 1b, VL 4.8m, stage 1
Interferon/Ribavirin nonresponder 2003
Started Harvoni 2/5/15
@ 4 weeks <15 Detected
@ 8 weeks    Not Detected
@ 12 weeks  Not Detected
@12 weeks after end of treatment    Not Detected

Offline cate

  • Member
  • Posts: 10
Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #30 on: April 05, 2015, 07:41:54 pm »
Hi, and yes! I've had a big appetite since about two weeks into treatment? Wonder why? My Hepatologist mentioned that she hears this often from her patients.

We've extended treatment to 24 weeks from 12 since I was a slow responder, so I better watch the cravings. I've been drinking one, 8-ounce glass of spring or distilled water with about 2 TBL of Apple Cider Vinegar, a squeeze of lemon, and a sprinkle of cinnamon that has helped me reduce cravings (especially sweets!) and is also great for weight loss and maintaining health. But some may need extra weight. I am not one of those peeps. 

Best,
Cate
« Last Edit: April 05, 2015, 07:46:13 pm by cate »
Harvoni Start Date: December, 2014 for 12 weeks

Week 8: Revised treatment plan to 20 weeks due to slow response and slight VL

Last pill: Early May (EOT)

June 4 Update: Week 4; Post Treatment - UND!

Geno 1a
Early cirrhosis
Treatment Naive

Offline Barbara Marin

  • Member
  • Posts: 12
Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #31 on: April 05, 2015, 08:27:02 pm »
I am eating like a champ, and yes, my sweet tooth is at an all time high. I've gained 5 pounds since I began 9 weeks ago. Small price to pay, and tasty too!
Geno: Mixed 1a/1b
Contracted disease 1970
Biopsy 1994 chronic active
Biopsy 1996 mild chronic
Biopsy 2013 stage 2/3
Prior to TX fatigue, joint pain, skin rash
Began Harvoni 1/31/15
Undetectable at 8 weeks
Spring 2015 CT scan showed cirrhosis
Last pill 4/24/15
No prior treatments

Offline Barbara Marin

  • Member
  • Posts: 12
Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #32 on: April 05, 2015, 08:28:28 pm »
I am eating like a champ, and yes, my sweet tooth is at an all time high. I've gained 5 pounds since I began 9 weeks ago. Small price to pay, and tasty too!
Geno: Mixed 1a/1b
Contracted disease 1970
Biopsy 1994 chronic active
Biopsy 1996 mild chronic
Biopsy 2013 stage 2/3
Prior to TX fatigue, joint pain, skin rash
Began Harvoni 1/31/15
Undetectable at 8 weeks
Spring 2015 CT scan showed cirrhosis
Last pill 4/24/15
No prior treatments

Offline MEG

  • Member
  • Posts: 304
Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #33 on: April 15, 2015, 02:45:28 am »
Ahhhh....I'm entering the 12th and final week of Harvoni..wooo.

I too have gained weight and recently began having more of an appetite....I thought the weight gain was because I was so fatigued/fighting terrible sinusitis, that I've not been able to exercise(cycling is what I do)........Have been essentially bed-bound except for essential errands/activities of daily living.

But this past week, I'm feeling stronger, and although not ready to get on the bike, my appetite is NUTS.........I won't get on the scale, but my clothing is feeling tighter and tighter....

6 more days to go! Who knew that having a better functioning liver would lead to weight gain? I thought the opposite was true. That fats/sugars don't get metabolized well with liver disease....

PS: I have eaten so cleanly throughout therapy. No sweets except for some chocolate on Easter Day. I use fruit or sweet potatoes to feed my sweet tooth), very little to no bread(gluten free). Essentially my diet has been home-made chicken soups, veggies, tree nuts(cashews, almonds), fruit....I'm stunned that I could be gaining weight with this kind of diet intake...

Thanks everyone for bringing this up....at least now we can look forward to SVR and weight loss!
Geno 1a. IL28B+ with TT polymorphism.
Diagnosed 1993.
Liver Biopsy 1993 --inflammation.
Fibroscan 2014---no fibrosis.
ALT range---60s
AST range---80s.
Platelets: 200K range.
Viral load--2 million range.

Began Harvoni on January 23.
Finished 12 week course on April 19.

May 18---4 week EOT labs:
VL: UNDETECTED.
AST: 23
ALT: 22...........These have not been this low throughout treatment and since my 20s.

12 weeks EOT on July 15---Undetected.

Offline atomic dog

  • Member
  • Posts: 160
Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #34 on: April 15, 2015, 02:14:11 pm »
Congrats on getting through it. Sorry to hear you were bed bound. Envious that you have managed your diet--I just couldn't get it together other than cutting way back on red meat and adding salads, a few blueberries and nuts once in a while.

Best of luck on your SVR.

Infected 1969, dirty needle
Geno 1a
Stage 2 fib, some necrosis
TX naive
1/29/15 ALT61; AST43
2/16/15 Started Harvoni; VL 1.5 m;
2/19/15 ALT40; AST24
2/29/15 ALT29; AST25
3/9/15 ALT28; AST25; 
3/9/15 < 20 IU/mL (3 wks) HCV RNA remains 'detected'
3/24/15 ALT30; AST25;
3/24/15 <20 IU/mL (5 wks) HCV RNA
4/10/15 <20 IU/ml (7 weeks) HCV RNA
4/20/15 ALT36; AST27
4/20/15 UND
5/11/15 UND (EOT); ALT33; AST25
6/11/15 UND; ALT 34; AST 29
8/14/15 UND
11/15/15 SVR, 24-wk EOT

Offline MEG

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Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #35 on: April 15, 2015, 02:25:25 pm »
Congrats on getting through it. Sorry to hear you were bed bound. Envious that you have managed your diet--I just couldn't get it together other than cutting way back on red meat and adding salads, a few blueberries and nuts once in a while.

Best of luck on your SVR.

Thanks atomic...it's taken me years to clean out my diet habits since diagnosis(early 90s) and indeed, I did go "all in" when I began Harvoni.

But the changes that you describe you made are no small feat...the older we get, especially, the harder it is to change.

Wishing you SVR too....all of us, please God.
Geno 1a. IL28B+ with TT polymorphism.
Diagnosed 1993.
Liver Biopsy 1993 --inflammation.
Fibroscan 2014---no fibrosis.
ALT range---60s
AST range---80s.
Platelets: 200K range.
Viral load--2 million range.

Began Harvoni on January 23.
Finished 12 week course on April 19.

May 18---4 week EOT labs:
VL: UNDETECTED.
AST: 23
ALT: 22...........These have not been this low throughout treatment and since my 20s.

12 weeks EOT on July 15---Undetected.

Offline dragonslayer

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Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #36 on: April 15, 2015, 03:33:49 pm »
My weight was stable on Harvoni.. After Harvoni, its a different story.. In my case, Harvoni had no effect on diet; I just got a little sloppy with the diet post treatment.. Currently in the process of reigning it in.. Only talking about a few pounds.

Meg, when is your EOT?
Paul

DX 2008
Started Harvoni 11/26/14 for 8 wks
Completed 8 wks Harvoni 01/20/15
EOT RNA Quant result:  Detected 29
7.5 wk post tx: Detected < LLOQ(12)
11 wk post tx: UNDETECTED SVR12
24 wk post tx: UNDETECTED SVR24; AST 26; ALT 22; ALP 73
48 wk post tx: UNDETECTED SVR48; AST 18; ALT 18; ALP 70
GT 1a
vl 2.4mil
2008 bpx: Stage&Grade 0
2013 bpx: Stage&Grade: 0-1
IL28B: TT
likely infected early '70s

Offline MEG

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Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #37 on: April 15, 2015, 03:36:13 pm »
How lucky you didn't gain weight, Paul.

My EOT is 4/20....!
Geno 1a. IL28B+ with TT polymorphism.
Diagnosed 1993.
Liver Biopsy 1993 --inflammation.
Fibroscan 2014---no fibrosis.
ALT range---60s
AST range---80s.
Platelets: 200K range.
Viral load--2 million range.

Began Harvoni on January 23.
Finished 12 week course on April 19.

May 18---4 week EOT labs:
VL: UNDETECTED.
AST: 23
ALT: 22...........These have not been this low throughout treatment and since my 20s.

12 weeks EOT on July 15---Undetected.

Offline dragonslayer

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Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #38 on: April 15, 2015, 04:06:18 pm »
How lucky you didn't gain weight, Paul.

My EOT is 4/20....!

Oh wow... Monday.... Cant wait to see the good news.. Fill in the data thread so we can track your progress....  Im feeling only good things for you!!
Paul

DX 2008
Started Harvoni 11/26/14 for 8 wks
Completed 8 wks Harvoni 01/20/15
EOT RNA Quant result:  Detected 29
7.5 wk post tx: Detected < LLOQ(12)
11 wk post tx: UNDETECTED SVR12
24 wk post tx: UNDETECTED SVR24; AST 26; ALT 22; ALP 73
48 wk post tx: UNDETECTED SVR48; AST 18; ALT 18; ALP 70
GT 1a
vl 2.4mil
2008 bpx: Stage&Grade 0
2013 bpx: Stage&Grade: 0-1
IL28B: TT
likely infected early '70s

Offline Bituman

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Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #39 on: April 15, 2015, 04:37:03 pm »
I'm always hungry and probably eat more than I should.  But no more or less since starting Harvoni.  I am one of the lucky ones that have experienced no side effects.  So I've been able to maintain my normal exercise routine and therefore, I have maintained my weight. 

Meg you'll have your knees in the breeze before you know it.  Then the weight will fall off.  I wish I had your will power re: eating healthy. 

Seems like every time I get good labs I celebrate with nachos or similar.  Probably I even celebrate all of your good labs with nachos. 

Bob

Age = 59, male, infected likely 1975
DX 07/07 GT 1a
Biopsy 2007:  GR 1, stage 0, HAI = 2/18
Since 2007:  1.48 MM < VL < 11 MM, avg = 5.64 MM
IL28B=CT
1/26/15, AST=43, ALT=55, VL=3.59 MM
2/5 Start Harvoni 12 weeks; Treat naive
2/20 AST=29, ALT=24, VL=59
3/6 AST=29, ALT=25, VL<15
3/19 AST=24, ALT=22, VL=undet
4/3 AST=29, ALT=25, VL=undet
4/30 EOT, AST=22, ALT=20, VL=undet
5/29 EOT+4, AST=20, ALT=19, VL=undet SVR
7/24 EOT+12, AST=23, ALT=18, VL=undet SVR
10/16 EOT+24, AST=22, ALT=17, VL=undet SVR

Offline Espo2

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  • Needle stick at work 1987, 1b
Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #40 on: April 18, 2015, 10:57:18 am »
I take Harvoni first thing in the morning, fasting.

While I am still seeing an increased appetite, I am using that as a sprng board to eat more nutritious food. The past few years I felt too bad to eat and practically lived on sweet drinks, a snack cake or canned soup, the things I wouldn't touch before I became so ill, due to the convenience. Now I am well enough to shop for food, bring it home and cook it.

I feel like I am getting a second chance at life.

I was hoping I would die. Not because I was suicidal but because I didn't want to suffer any more.  This is truly a miracle for me.
Hi,Getting well, Thank you for responding to my thoughts of future. I defaulted to maybe I'll die soon, didn't want to burden my kids with lingering liver disease. We get sick of feeling sick too. We lived to die, now we have to live to live! New life, really didn't think there was a second chance for us. I turned 60 this week also, what a present! Everybody keep the faith!

Offline atomic dog

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Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #41 on: April 18, 2015, 12:28:28 pm »
Espo2. Weight gain be damned. 60! You've earned a slice of birthday cake. Seriously, thanks for sharing your thoughts. Even my family didn't understand the way that Hep C ruled my life. I also lived with death looking over my shoulder. It contributed to gloominess but also helped to push me to try and make a difference in this crazy world. Harvoni can be a game changer and while I don't know the eventual outcome I appreciate the chance to have a new lease on life. Believe me, I wept when I learned that I had finally been approved. Rock on.
Infected 1969, dirty needle
Geno 1a
Stage 2 fib, some necrosis
TX naive
1/29/15 ALT61; AST43
2/16/15 Started Harvoni; VL 1.5 m;
2/19/15 ALT40; AST24
2/29/15 ALT29; AST25
3/9/15 ALT28; AST25; 
3/9/15 < 20 IU/mL (3 wks) HCV RNA remains 'detected'
3/24/15 ALT30; AST25;
3/24/15 <20 IU/mL (5 wks) HCV RNA
4/10/15 <20 IU/ml (7 weeks) HCV RNA
4/20/15 ALT36; AST27
4/20/15 UND
5/11/15 UND (EOT); ALT33; AST25
6/11/15 UND; ALT 34; AST 29
8/14/15 UND
11/15/15 SVR, 24-wk EOT

Offline MEG

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Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #42 on: April 18, 2015, 12:31:36 pm »
@Bitumen/Bob
Quote
Meg you'll have your knees in the breeze before you know it.  Then the weight will fall off.  I wish I had your will power re: eating healthy. 

From your lips to God's ears re: my cycling! Last dose tomorrow. Will power? Necessity being the mother of innovation, and all that. ;-) If I was feeling as good as you do,  I hardly think I'd be so strict.

Quote
Seems like every time I get good labs I celebrate with nachos or similar.  Probably I even celebrate all of your good labs with nachos. 

LOLOLOL......I love nachos too. Love them. I just may celebrate my SVR with a huge platter of them...Best, Bob. Thanks for posting and that you're not experiencing side-effects.  I think it's especially helpful for those lurking or considering treatment----I think that those of us who experience side effects are the ones most likely to post on patient sites like this and we inadvertently? may skew the broader population experience to be harder than it is?

I suppose the year-end liver conferences where they discuss the "real world" data with Harvoni will offer some insights re: clinical trial experiences vs. post approval...
« Last Edit: April 18, 2015, 12:40:59 pm by MEG »
Geno 1a. IL28B+ with TT polymorphism.
Diagnosed 1993.
Liver Biopsy 1993 --inflammation.
Fibroscan 2014---no fibrosis.
ALT range---60s
AST range---80s.
Platelets: 200K range.
Viral load--2 million range.

Began Harvoni on January 23.
Finished 12 week course on April 19.

May 18---4 week EOT labs:
VL: UNDETECTED.
AST: 23
ALT: 22...........These have not been this low throughout treatment and since my 20s.

12 weeks EOT on July 15---Undetected.

Offline atomic dog

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Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #43 on: April 21, 2015, 04:15:26 pm »
Yeah, I watched a Harvoni TV ad this morning--they didn't mention: "Side effects might include a craving for nachos and massive weight gain."
« Last Edit: April 21, 2015, 06:14:14 pm by atomic dog »
Infected 1969, dirty needle
Geno 1a
Stage 2 fib, some necrosis
TX naive
1/29/15 ALT61; AST43
2/16/15 Started Harvoni; VL 1.5 m;
2/19/15 ALT40; AST24
2/29/15 ALT29; AST25
3/9/15 ALT28; AST25; 
3/9/15 < 20 IU/mL (3 wks) HCV RNA remains 'detected'
3/24/15 ALT30; AST25;
3/24/15 <20 IU/mL (5 wks) HCV RNA
4/10/15 <20 IU/ml (7 weeks) HCV RNA
4/20/15 ALT36; AST27
4/20/15 UND
5/11/15 UND (EOT); ALT33; AST25
6/11/15 UND; ALT 34; AST 29
8/14/15 UND
11/15/15 SVR, 24-wk EOT

Offline MEG

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  • Posts: 304
Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #44 on: April 21, 2015, 04:31:20 pm »
@atomic

Hahahahahha!

Let's sue for omitting such important sides..LOL.
Geno 1a. IL28B+ with TT polymorphism.
Diagnosed 1993.
Liver Biopsy 1993 --inflammation.
Fibroscan 2014---no fibrosis.
ALT range---60s
AST range---80s.
Platelets: 200K range.
Viral load--2 million range.

Began Harvoni on January 23.
Finished 12 week course on April 19.

May 18---4 week EOT labs:
VL: UNDETECTED.
AST: 23
ALT: 22...........These have not been this low throughout treatment and since my 20s.

12 weeks EOT on July 15---Undetected.

Offline Kim

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  • Posts: 34
Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #45 on: April 21, 2015, 05:02:38 pm »
The good news is that my appetite has returned to normal after EOT!  My sweet cravings are gone as well.

Offline MEG

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  • Posts: 304
Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #46 on: April 21, 2015, 05:06:43 pm »
Yay Kim!! How long did it take?

This is my 2nd day off treatment...woooooo. Have been praying(among other important things like SVR ;-) that appetite will get back to normal.
Geno 1a. IL28B+ with TT polymorphism.
Diagnosed 1993.
Liver Biopsy 1993 --inflammation.
Fibroscan 2014---no fibrosis.
ALT range---60s
AST range---80s.
Platelets: 200K range.
Viral load--2 million range.

Began Harvoni on January 23.
Finished 12 week course on April 19.

May 18---4 week EOT labs:
VL: UNDETECTED.
AST: 23
ALT: 22...........These have not been this low throughout treatment and since my 20s.

12 weeks EOT on July 15---Undetected.

Offline Kim

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  • Posts: 34
Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #47 on: April 21, 2015, 05:52:04 pm »
Hi Meg,  My sugar cravings and headaches disappeared right away - just had my labs drawn 2 weeks post EOT and my ALT and AST are back to normal too!  Still awaiting the PCR results.

Offline MEG

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  • Posts: 304
Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #48 on: April 21, 2015, 05:57:08 pm »
Hi Kim,

I'm so glad to hear this...it's torturous, isn't it? My sweet cravings are not so bad today but eating, in general, is what my brain still keeps thinking about.  It's heartening to know that this too shall pass....thank you so much for sharing.

High fives on your LFT's being normal. Please keep us posted on your viral load and in the meanwhile, enjoy your post-hcv life!
Geno 1a. IL28B+ with TT polymorphism.
Diagnosed 1993.
Liver Biopsy 1993 --inflammation.
Fibroscan 2014---no fibrosis.
ALT range---60s
AST range---80s.
Platelets: 200K range.
Viral load--2 million range.

Began Harvoni on January 23.
Finished 12 week course on April 19.

May 18---4 week EOT labs:
VL: UNDETECTED.
AST: 23
ALT: 22...........These have not been this low throughout treatment and since my 20s.

12 weeks EOT on July 15---Undetected.

Offline Espo2

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  • Needle stick at work 1987, 1b
Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #49 on: April 21, 2015, 11:07:48 pm »
Atomic Dog.  Thanks for inspiration! And sharing thoughts of gloom about this illness we share. We need a different mirror now!!!! Not sick! Had a lobster and birthday cake! be so nice to go to Docs and not put Hep c down on forms and not panic if we get cut n bleed near family member. And drink wine n get silly some time. Just got 4 week result, undetected! Joint pain getting very annoying. Itchy dry skin too. Seems to amplify anything that is off a little. But food tastes soooo good.   Started 6th week.

Offline susanb

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Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #50 on: April 22, 2015, 11:30:59 am »
I have notice an increased appetite - and EVERYTHING is delicious. Not to mention an excelerated sweet tooth. Im on week 6 of Harvoni & it's going pretty well with the exception of edema in my calves, ankles & feet.....& occasional crying jags. Is this familiar to any of you?

Offline joe49

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  • Posts: 4
Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #51 on: April 22, 2015, 11:55:50 am »
Today is my 12 week anniversary on Harvoni.  Last labs normal ast and alt.  Platelets are still low but improving.  All other labs at or close to normal.  Non-responder to Incivek with interferon and ribo -- pure hell for nothing. 

As you all have noted, I too have a significant increase in appetite.  I've gained about 5 lbs -- not too bad.  I attribute the lack of significant weight gain to my digestive system simply working better.   I've become very regular with my bowels -- this is a very big deal for a 65 year old.  I also cannot get warm -- seem to be always chilly -- and I always seem to have a low-grade headache.

Nevertheless, I now "live to live" whereas previously I was "living to die".  Whoever posted that previously was inspired.

Offline Gittin Cured

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  • Start Harovni April 7, 2015
Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #52 on: April 22, 2015, 12:02:13 pm »
Good to hear many others are experiencing the "starvation" that seems to epitomize Harvoni.  I feel like I am starving to death sometimes and when I over eat I get some serious nausea...kind of a catch 22.  I have noticed a significant increase in energy and until today, leg pain started flaring up, I have been able to do a lot of activities that I have just been to tired to do in the last 20 years, biking, heavy yard work, big paint jobs, etc.
Diagnosed October 2006, contracted approx. 1972
1st treatment PEG Interferon and Riba Feb 2007 FAIL
2nd Treatment PEG Interferon and Riba April 2009
Relapsed from second round
Start Harvoni April 2015
Geno Type 1b, current viral load - 8.3MM

Harvoni - finished 8 wks, HCV und, AST, ALT, GGT all in range, very exciting!  First time in 40 years!

Offline atomic dog

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Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #53 on: April 23, 2015, 01:18:07 am »
Got some heavy yard work that needs to be done if you're feeling energetic. . . just kid din'. Glad to hear that you're energized. The Harvoni must be working its strange magic.
Infected 1969, dirty needle
Geno 1a
Stage 2 fib, some necrosis
TX naive
1/29/15 ALT61; AST43
2/16/15 Started Harvoni; VL 1.5 m;
2/19/15 ALT40; AST24
2/29/15 ALT29; AST25
3/9/15 ALT28; AST25; 
3/9/15 < 20 IU/mL (3 wks) HCV RNA remains 'detected'
3/24/15 ALT30; AST25;
3/24/15 <20 IU/mL (5 wks) HCV RNA
4/10/15 <20 IU/ml (7 weeks) HCV RNA
4/20/15 ALT36; AST27
4/20/15 UND
5/11/15 UND (EOT); ALT33; AST25
6/11/15 UND; ALT 34; AST 29
8/14/15 UND
11/15/15 SVR, 24-wk EOT

Offline Debula

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  • Posts: 257
  • "Your body hears everything your mind says"
Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #54 on: April 23, 2015, 09:46:30 am »
I also have noticed that I am constantly starving to death.  And exactly what "Gittin Cured" said.  Except I don't get nausea if I over eat but a terrible bloating and sometimes that swollen liver feeling.
I can stand to gain a couple of lbs  so I'm not tooo worried about that (yet)
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 Kim

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Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #55 on: April 23, 2015, 04:58:01 pm »
2 weeks post EOT - Undetected!!!!!!!!!!! Yipee!
Also, losing the unwanted pounds gained with the "Harvoni appetite"!

Offline susanb

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Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #56 on: April 23, 2015, 05:59:31 pm »
2 weeks past EOT and clear - fabulous!!! I am hoping to see an undetected VL from my first blood test any day now. Then it's only 5 more months of tx. It will be interesting to see how it feels to be virus free. I've had this disease since the mid-70s and so it has been with me most of my life. What will it feel like to be without it? Especially since I am really beginning to feel the virus now. The cirrhosis (stage 4) of the liver, edema in the lower legs, ankles and feet, general crumminess. But good news is the brain fog is going away which gives me hope that the Harvoni is working.
BTW - I really like reading the posts at this blog because it normalizes things for me. So off I go for a delicious calorie packed lunch & some cookies - LOL!!

Offline sabre

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Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #57 on: April 23, 2015, 06:44:52 pm »
Hi all,

First post...[ding, ding, ding].

I've been on 'Starvoni' for 4 weeks and the appetite has been ferocious. My problem is, I've got kidney disease and high blood pressure, so I can't simply raid the refrigerator when I get hungry. I'm on a very low potassium/low sodium diet, and in case you're wondering, everything has potassium.

I think I'm barely getting 1500 calories a day and have lost 30lbs since January. If I kick the butt out of my 35 year HCV infection, it'll all be worth it.

Thankful to be on Harvoni, even though it's making me want to eat my arm.

Peace and best wishes,

sabre
Infected 1980 / Diagnosed 2008
GT 1 / Treatment naive / VL 190,000
Biopsy 2008: stage 0 grade 1
Fibroscan 2015: F2 mild fibrosis
Chronic kidney disease (due to HCV) / Proteinuria

12 weeks Harvoni began on 03/28/2015
End of treatment: 06/19/2015
Labs on 06/17/2015: Undetected
Labs on 09/21/2015: Undetected (SVR12)

Offline Gramsgrl

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Re: Anyone more hungry?
« Reply #58 on: April 23, 2015, 09:31:52 pm »
Yes!! I am having the same effect! I have gained 5 lbs in the first 2 weeks! I am a Weight Watcher and have been at goal weight for over a year in preparation for starting the Harvoni. I wanted to be as healthy as possible before beginning treatment. I am worried what the next 6 weeks will bring. I find that although I am eating properly and drinking a couple of litres of  water every day , I still keep thinking about food! I have had a sort of bubbly stomach since day 2 and find if I eat something it settles for a bit. Oh well, my husband says once I am cured I can get back on track again. If it would warm up maybe I could find some motivation to get out and get more exercise. Six more weeks.....how bad can it be? LOL

 


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