There is not extensive research and resources available for co-infection with Hepatitis B and C. It is estimated that 33% of patients with chronic Hepatitis C are also infected with Hepatitis B. With co-infection of Hepatitis B and C the liver is under much more stress than if there were just one virus present in the body. This results in greater liver damage and faster progression to cirrhosis of the liver. In addition, symptoms of the viruses are magnified. Many patients complain that they are increasingly tired and irritable with Hepatitis B and C co-infection.

Treating co-infection with Hepatitis B
Generally, doctors do recommend treatment for this co-infection. The decision of which treatment to take would be determined by which of the two viruses dominates the other. According to that information, the patient then would either be put on a combination of Interferon and Lamivudine for Hepatitis B or Interferon and Ribavirin for Hepatitis C. Again, as stated before, it is important to maintain a close relationship with your doctor in order to make the right decisions for you and your virus.