Genotype 3: What You Need to Know About Hepatitis C

Genotype 3 (often called G3) is one of the common strains of hepatitis C virus. It behaves a bit differently than other genotypes. For people with G3, liver fat (steatosis) and faster fibrosis are more likely. That can change how doctors approach treatment and monitoring.

How you find out you have Genotype 3

First, an HCV antibody test tells if you were exposed. If that’s positive, an HCV RNA test checks for active virus. If RNA is present, a genotype test identifies G3. These tests are routine at clinics and many labs. Ask your provider specifically for a genotype result — it matters for choosing the right medicine.

Treatment options and practical choices

The good news: modern direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) cure most people with genotype 3. Common pan-genotypic options doctors use include sofosbuvir/velpatasvir and glecaprevir/pibrentasvir. Treatment length is usually 8–12 weeks depending on whether you’ve had prior treatment and whether you have cirrhosis. Your doctor will pick the exact drug and length based on your liver status and other meds you take.

Why this matters: G3 used to respond less well to older therapies. Today’s DAAs work much better, but people with cirrhosis or prior treatment failures may need a tailored plan. Expect your provider to check for resistance-associated changes in the virus if treatment was tried before.

Watch drug interactions. Some DAAs interact with cholesterol meds, HIV drugs, or strong antacids. Tell your provider everything you take — prescriptions, supplements, even herbal remedies.

Before you start therapy, your care team will usually do a few checks: liver stiffness (FibroScan or blood tests), full blood work, and tests for hepatitis A and B immunity. If you’re not immune, you may be offered vaccines.

Small lifestyle moves help. Avoid alcohol, control weight, and treat diabetes or high triglycerides. These steps lower liver stress and improve outcomes alongside antiviral therapy.

After treatment, you’ll get an HCV RNA test 12 weeks later to confirm cure (called SVR12). Most people are virus-free at that point. If you had advanced fibrosis, you’ll still need regular liver checks even after cure.

Questions to ask your provider: Which DAA do you recommend for my case? How long will I be on treatment? Any interactions with my current meds? Do I need vaccines before treatment? Who will follow my liver health after treatment?

Genotype 3 used to be tougher to beat, but current options cure most people. Get tested, talk openly with your provider, and follow the monitoring plan. That puts you on the fastest path to a cure and better liver health.