Information about Ribavirin
Generic Name : RibavirinUp-to-date prescription details regarding Ribavirin are provided here.
Pronunciation : RYE-ba-VIR-in
Learn the correct pronunciation of the Ribavirin, understand it's uses, recommended dosages, its indications, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, warnings and its and its storage instructions.You will also find a list of the medication's International and Indian brand or trade names, as well as its pricing information. For verification of the information presented on this page or for additional clarifications, it's advisable to consult your doctor.
ICD Code : Y41.5 Therapeutic Classification : Anti- Hepatitis Agents
Trade Names/Brand Names of Ribavirin
India :
Ribavin (30 ml) |
Virazide |
Ribavin (200 mg) |
Ribavin (200mg) |
Virazide (200 mg) |
Ribavin |
Rebetol |
Ribavin (50mg/5mL) |
Virazide (30 ml) |
Rebetol (200mg)
International :
Copegus, Rebetol, Virazole
Why is Ribavirin Prescribed? (Indications)
This medication is an antiviral agent, prescribed for severe Respiratory Syncytial Viral infection in infants and children, especially those with other risk factors such as heart disease. It is also used in chronic hepatitis C infection combined with Peginterferon.When should Ribavirin not be taken? (Contraindications)
Contraindicated to pregnant women, men whose female partners are pregnant, patients with a history of allergy to this drug or any component of the product; patients with abnormal hemoglobin and anemia, autoimmune liver disease, liver failure, creatinine clearance < 50 ml/min, along with didanosine.What is the dosage of Ribavirin?
Adult: PO- 400 – 600 mg two times per day. Dosage depends on the product used and patient's body weight. It is administered via inhalation in infants.How should Ribavirin be taken?
It comes as a tablet, a capsule, an oral solution to take by mouth and an aerosol solution. Take oral preparations two times per day with food.What are the warnings and precautions for Ribavirin?
•Caution needed for patients with history of extensive liver fibrosis, kidney impairment, and anemia.Monitor complete blood count regularly during treatment.
Use at least 2 reliable contraceptives during treatment and for at least 6 month after treatment.
Increased risk of heart attack in patients with anemia.
It may make you drowsy, dizzy, or confused. Do not drive a car or operate machinery while taking this medication.
What are the side effects of Ribavirin?
Most common- Injection site reaction, fatigue, weakness, headache, rigors, fevers, nausea, muscle pain and anxiety, anger, mood swings.Most Serious - Hemolytic anemia (Anemia due to breakdown of red blood cells).
Central Nervous System- Fatigue, weakness, headache, depression, psychosis, aggressive behavior, hallucinations, or violent behavior.
Gastrointestinal- Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite.
Metabolic- Abnormality in thyroid hormone.
Heart- Abnormal rate or rhythm may occur in patients taking inhaled ribavirin with underlying heart disease.
Miscellaneous- Fever, decrease in white blood cell, injection site redness, loss of hair, allergic reactions.
