Ribavirin

Information about Ribavirin

Ribavirin uses

Ribavirin is used in the treatment of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. It is used in combination with interferon.

How ribavirin works

Ribavirin is an antiviral medication. It prevents the multiplication of virus in human cells. This stops the virus from producing new viruses and clears up your infection.

Common side effects of ribavirin

Headache, Low blood platelets, Depression, Decreased appetite, Pharyngitis, Decreased level of thyroid hormones, Swelling of lymph nodes, Increased triglyceride level in blood, Suicidal ideation, Aggression, Bacterial pneumonia, Pneumothorax, Hypotension (low blood pressure), Gum swelling, Hepatomegaly (enlarged liver), Aplastic anemia, Systemic lupus erythematosus, Reticulocytosis, Sarcoidosis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, Toxic epidermal necrolysis, Rhabdomyolysis, Ischemic colitis, Myocardial infarction

Available Medicine for Ribavirin

  • ₹3190
    Aprazer Healthcare Pvt Ltd
    1 variant(s)
  • ₹81 to ₹114
    Lupin Ltd
    2 variant(s)
  • ₹95 to ₹133
    Lupin Ltd
    2 variant(s)
  • ₹174
    Taj Pharma India Ltd
    1 variant(s)
  • ₹180
    Wockhardt Ltd
    1 variant(s)
  • ₹800
    Natco Pharma Ltd
    1 variant(s)
  • ₹120
    Hetero Drugs Ltd
    1 variant(s)

Frequently asked questions for Ribavirin

Ribavirin

Q. How does Ribavirin work?
Ribavirin belongs to a class of antiviral medications called nucleoside analogues. It decreases the amount of Hepatitis C virus in the body by blocking its growth, resulting in less liver damage and improved liver function
Q. What are the severe side effects of Ribavirin?
Ribavirin may cause anemia that can worsen any heart problems and can cause a heart attack that can be life-threatening. Call your doctor immediately in case you experience excessive tiredness, pale skin, headache, dizziness, confusion, fast heartbeat, weakness, shortness of breath, or chest pain.
Q. Can pregnant women take Ribavirin?
No. Pregnant women should never take Ribavirin. Studies have shown that Ribavirin may cause birth defects, miscarriage, and stillbirth, if given during pregnancy. Women should have a negative pregnancy test prior to therapy and must use effective contraception methods. Women who are already taking Ribavirin are advised to undergo periodic pregnancy tests.
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Q. What if I forget to take a dose of Ribavirin?
If you forget a dose of Ribavirin, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next scheduled dose in the prescribed time. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one as this may increase the chances of developing side effects.
Q. Is Ribavirin safe?
Ribavirin is safe if used in the dose and duration advised by your doctor. Take it exactly as directed and do not skip any dose. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully and let your doctor know if any of the side effects bother you.
Q. How should I store Ribavirin?
Ribavirin should be stored at a temperature between 25 to 30 degrees Celsius, away from the reach of children. It should be kept away from direct sunlight and should not be freezed either.

Content on this page was last updated on 13 June, 2023, by Dr. Varun Gupta (MD Pharmacology)