Can patients with hepatitis B take entecavir?

Sep 23, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Gao Jun

Introduction

In general, "hepatitis B" refers to hepatitis B virus infection. Patients with chronic hepatitis B can take entecavir, which is a first-line antiviral drug in clinical treatment. Entecavir can effectively suppress hepatitis B virus replication and delay the progression of liver damage. However, it must be used properly under the guidance of a doctor; self-medication or stopping the medication without medical advice is not recommended. During treatment, patients should regularly undergo follow-up tests for liver function and viral markers.

In general, "hepatitis B" refers to hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. Patients with hepatitis B can take entecavir, which is a first-line antiviral drug used clinically for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B. It effectively suppresses HBV replication and slows the progression of liver damage. However, it must be used properly under medical supervision—patients should not self-medicate or discontinue treatment without guidance. The detailed analysis is as follows:

Entecavir belongs to the class of nucleoside analogs. It works by inhibiting the HBV DNA polymerase, thereby preventing viral replication within liver cells and reducing the viral load in the body. It is primarily indicated for patients with chronic hepatitis B who have detectable HBV DNA and elevated alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels, those with cirrhosis accompanied by active HBV replication, and high-risk individuals requiring long-term viral suppression to reduce the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma.

Entecavir requires long-term administration; stopping the medication abruptly may lead to viral rebound and worsening liver function. Before starting treatment, patients should be evaluated for renal function abnormalities, and dosage adjustments are necessary for those with impaired kidney function. During therapy, regular monitoring of HBV DNA levels, liver function, and renal function is essential to assess both efficacy and safety.

Throughout the treatment process, patients should undergo regular follow-up tests of liver function and viral markers so that doctors can adjust the treatment plan accordingly. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, avoiding alcohol consumption and excessive fatigue, can help improve treatment outcomes.

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Is liver cancer or chronic viral hepatitis contagious?

In general, liver cancer itself is not contagious, but chronic viral hepatitis can be transmitted. In daily life, it is important to avoid sharing personal items that may come into contact with blood, such as toothbrushes and razors. Individuals with chronic viral hepatitis should actively seek treatment to reduce the risk of virus transmission. Healthy individuals can enhance their resistance to related viral hepatitis through measures such as receiving the hepatitis B vaccine.

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Can hepatitis B be cured?

In general, hepatitis B refers to Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. Whether it can be cured depends on the specific situation. Most cases of acute hepatitis B can be completely cured, while chronic hepatitis B is currently difficult to eradicate entirely. However, with proper treatment, the condition can be effectively controlled over the long term, allowing patients to maintain a normal life. The key difference lies in the age at which the virus is acquired and the type of disease presentation. If you suspect or have been diagnosed with hepatitis B, it is recommended to seek timely medical care at a正规 hospital.

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What medication should be taken for high alanine aminotransferase?

Generally speaking, there is no specific medication for "elevated alanine aminotransferase (ALT)." High ALT levels may result from factors such as chronic sleep deprivation, excessive alcohol consumption, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, drug-induced liver injury, or chronic hepatitis B. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and then improve the condition through general management, medications, or other treatments under the guidance of a physician.