Hepatitis A medical therapy
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [2]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Rim Halaby, M.D. [3]
Overview
There is no specific treatment for hepatitis A. Recovery from symptoms following infection may take several weeks or months. Supportive therapy includes rest, maintaining adequate nutritional balance, and replacement of fluids. Symptomatic treatment may be indicated using drugs that are excreted renally. In contrast, drugs that are metabolized by the liver should be avoided (e.g. acetaminophen).
Medical Therapy
- Hepatitis A is a self-limiting infection. There is no specific treatment but for supportive care, with no restrictions in diet or activity.
- Hospitalization might be necessary for patients who become dehydrated because of nausea and vomiting and is critical for patients with signs or symptoms of acute liver failure.[1]
- Medications that might cause liver damage or are metabolized by the liver should be avoided among persons with hepatitis A (e.g. acetaminophen).[1]
- Patients are advised to rest, avoid alcohol, and stay hydrated.