Learn About Hepatitis B
What is hepatitis B and how is it diagnosed?
Hepatitis B is a virus that infects the liver and uses it as a breeding ground to produce more virus. As the virus multiplies in the liver, it is released into the bloodstream where it can be detected and measured by a simple blood test.
Chronic, or long-term infection with hepatitis B, can cause the liver to become inflamed, meaning swollen or irritated.
For more information on getting screened and tested for hepatitis B, please talk with your doctor.
 |
 |
Healthy Liver |
Inflamed Liver |
[back to top]
What are the signs and symptoms of hepatitis B?
Unfortunately with chronic hepatitis B (CHB), you may not experience any symptoms.1 That's why chronic hepatitis B is often called a silent disease.
[back to top]
How is the hepatitis B virus transmitted?
The hepatitis B virus (HBV) is spread through direct contact with infected blood or body fluids, such as semen or vaginal fluid.2 In fact, one of the most common ways the virus spreads is during the birthing process when a mother unknowingly passes the virus on to her newborn baby.1
VIREAD does not reduce the risk of passing the hepatitis B virus to others through sexual contact or blood contamination. Continue to practice safe sex and do not use or share dirty needles. Do not share personal items that can have blood or body fluids on them, like toothbrushes or razor blades. A hepatitis B vaccination (a series of three shots) is available to protect people at risk for becoming infected with the hepatitis B virus.
But it's important to understand that hepatitis B is not a genetic or hereditary disease, and that it is not spread through breast-feeding, kissing, coughing, or sharing food.2
[back to top]
Are there other resources I could use to learn more about hepatitis B?
Yes there are. Here are several places you can turn to:
[back to top]
IMPORTANT RISK INFORMATION
Some people who have taken VIREAD have developed the following serious side effects:
- Build-up of an acid in your blood (called lactic acidosis)
- Severe liver problems (called hepatomegaly with steatosis)
- A worsening of hepatitis B infection when stopping VIREAD (a flare-up)
- New or worse kidney problems
- Bone problems
For more information about these serious side effects, and additional risk information for VIREAD, including boxed WARNINGS, please click here. Also, please see FDA-Approved Patient Labeling and Full Prescribing Information.
References:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Recommendations for identification and public health management of persons with chronic hepatitis B virus infection. Morb Mortal Wkly Rep. 2008;57:1-16.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Living with chronic hepatitis B. http://www.cdc.gov/hepatitis/b/PatientEduB.htm. Accessed May 20, 2010.