It is a guanosine nucleoside Indicated for the treatment of chronic Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, in combination with other antiviral agents.
Uses:
Ribavirin is the only known treatment for many viral hemorrhagic fevers, including Lassa fever, Crimean Congo hemorrhagic fever, Venezuelan hemorrhagic fever, Nipah virus infection and Hantavirus infection. It may be useful for treating coronavirus infection because of its broad-spectrum inhibition of RNA viruses.
It acts against Hepatitis C virus (HCV) through several mechanisms that include:
1) immune modulation;
2) inhibition of inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase
3) inhibition of RNA dependent RNA polymerase;
4) induction of HCV mutagenesis; and
5) modulation of interferon etc.
Ribavirin was patented in 1971 and approved for medical use in 1986. It is available as a generic medication.
Side Effects:
Common side effects include feeling tired, headache, nausea, fever, muscle pains, and an irritable mood. Serious side effects include red blood cell breakdown, liver problems, and allergic reactions.
Use during pregnancy results in harm to the baby. Effective birth control is recommended for both males and females for at least seven months during and after use.
Dose:
It is usually taken with food twice a day, in the morning and the evening, for 24 to 48 weeks or longer Take with food. Taking ribavirin with a high-fat meal slows the absorption.
It is rapidly and extensively absorbed following oral administration.
Avoid alcohol since it is used to treat chronic hepatitis C infection.
Warning:
The following laboratory tests are recommended for all patients treated with Ribavirin, prior to beginning treatment and then periodically thereafter.
Standard hematologic tests – including hemoglobin, complete and differential white blood cell counts, and platelet count. Blood chemistries – liver function tests and TSH.
Pregnancy monthly monitoring for women of child bearing potential & ECG
Dosage Forms And Strengths:
- Capsules 200 mg,
- Oral Solution 40 mg per ml
Capsules should be stored at 25°C & Oral Solution, between 2-8°C
