Ribavirin Benefits & Uses

Ribavirin is used to treat the following -

Main Benefits

Hepatitis C

Other Benefits

Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection

Ribavirin Dosage & How to Take

This is the usual dosage recommended in most common treatment cases. Please remember that every patient and their case is different, so the dosage can be different based on the disease, route of administration, patient's age and medical history.

Find the right dosage based on disease and age

Age Group	Dosage
Adult	Disease: Hepatitis C Before or After Meal: Either Single Maximum Dose: 400 mg Dosage Form: Capsule Dosage Route: Oral Frequency: 2 daily Course Duration: As directed by the doctor Special Instructions: As prescribed by the doctor
Geriatric	Disease: Hepatitis C Before or After Meal: Either Single Maximum Dose: 400 mg Dosage Form: Capsule Dosage Route: Oral Frequency: 2 daily Course Duration: As directed by the doctor Special Instructions: As prescribed by the doctor
13 - 18 years (Adolescent)	Disease: Hepatitis C Before or After Meal: Either Single Maximum Dose: 400 mg Dosage Form: Capsule Dosage Route: Oral Frequency: 2 daily Course Duration: As directed by the doctor Special Instructions: As prescribed by the doctor
2 - 12 years (Child)	Disease: Hepatitis C Before or After Meal: Either Single Maximum Dose: 200 mg Dosage Form: Tablet Dosage Route: Oral Frequency: 2 daily Course Duration: As directed by the doctor Special Instructions: Above 5 years old can take

Ribavirin Side Effects

Based on research, the following side effects have been observed when Ribavirin is used -

Severe

Anemia (Read More - Home Remedies for Anaemia)

Mild

Headache
Nausea or vomiting
पेट दर्द
Insomnia
Dizziness
Diarrhoea
Chills
Weight Loss
Rash

Ribavirin Related Warnings

Is the use of Ribavirin safe for pregnant women?

Ribavirin can cause severe side effects if taken during pregnancy, so, pregnant women should talk to their doctor before taking it.

Severe
Is the use of Ribavirin safe during breastfeeding?

Women who are breastfeeding can experience some moderate side effects of Ribavirin. Immediately discontinue Ribavirin if you observe any side effects. Contact your doctor, and restart using it only if your doctor considers it safe for you.

Moderate
What is the effect of Ribavirin on the Kidneys?

Ribavirin rarely affects the kidneys.

Mild
What is the effect of Ribavirin on the Liver?

Ribavirin may have mild side effects on the liver. Most people will never see any effect on the liver.

Mild
What is the effect of Ribavirin on the Heart?

Ribavirin is rarely harmful for the heart.

Mild

Severe Interaction of Ribavirin with Other Drugs

Ribavirin should not be taken with following medicines due to severe side effects it may cause to patients -

Severe

Abacavir,Lamivudine

Zidovudine

Azathioprine

Tenofovir

Emtricitabine

Ribavirin Contraindications

If you are suffering from any of the following diseases, you should not take Ribavirin unless your doctor advises you to do so -

Kidney Disease
Liver Disease
Heart Disease
Anemia
Thyroid problems
Hyperthyroidism

Frequently asked Questions about Ribavirin

Is this Ribavirin habit forming or addictive?

Ribavirin is not addictive in nature.

No
Is it safe to drive or operate heavy machinery when consuming?

No, you should do not do anything that requires concentration and attention as the Ribavirin can make you feel drowsy.

Dangerous
Is it safe?

Yes, Ribavirin is safe but you must consult your doctor before taking it.

Safe, but take only on Doctor's advise
Is it able to treat mental disorders?

No, the use of Ribavirin in mental disorders is not effective.

No

Ribavirin Interactions with Food and Alcohol

Interaction between Food and Ribavirin

Some foods when eaten with Ribavirin can alter the onset of actions. Discuss this with your doctor.

Mild
Interaction between Alcohol and Ribavirin

It is difficult to say anything about the effect of Ribavirin and alcohol. No research has been done on this yet.

Unknown

See all substitutes for Ribavirin

This medicine data has been created by -

Vikas Chauhan

B.Pharma, Pharmacy
5 Years of Experience

References

KD Tripathi. [link]. Seventh Edition. New Delhi, India: Jaypee Brothers Medical Publishers; 2013: Page No 804

US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) [Internet]. Maryland. USA; Package leaflet information for the user; Copegus® (ribavirin)

US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) [Internet]. Maryland. USA; Package leaflet information for the user; Rebetol® (ribavirin)

Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA): Department of Health [Internet]. Governmet of Australia; Package leaflet information for the user; Ibavyr® (ribavirin)