How are hepatitis A and hepatitis B treated?
Aug 04, 2021
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Yi
Introduction
The treatment of hepatitis A primarily focuses on hepatoprotective and supportive therapies. During hepatitis A infection, adequate caloric support should be provided first; intravenous administration of hepatoprotective agents may also be considered. In contrast, the main goal of hepatitis B treatment is to eliminate the hepatitis B virus. Commonly used antiviral drugs fall into two categories: (1) interferon-based agents, including both long-acting and short-acting interferons; and (2) oral nucleos(t)ide analogues.
Hepatitis A treatment is generally supportive, as hepatitis A is typically self-limiting. Primary therapeutic measures include hepatoprotective and supportive care. During acute hepatitis A infection, adequate caloric support should be provided first. If significant liver function abnormalities develop, intravenous hepatoprotective medications may be considered. Patients should also be advised to rest adequately and comply with prescribed treatment.
In contrast, hepatitis B treatment primarily aims to eliminate the hepatitis B virus (HBV). Commonly used antiviral agents fall into two main categories: interferons and oral nucleos(t)ide analogues. Interferon-based therapies include both long-acting and short-acting interferons. Long-acting interferon is administered subcutaneously once weekly at a dose of 180 μg; short-acting interferon is given subcutaneously every other day. Oral antiviral agents—nucleos(t)ide analogues—commonly used today include entecavir and tenofovir.
