Ribavirin
Generic Details
Generic Name
Ribavirin
Other Names
- Copegus
- Rebetol
- Virazole
Drug Class
- Antiviral
Chemical Formula
C8H12N4O5
Molecular Weight
244.21 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Inhibition of viral replication
Indications
- Hepatitis C infection
- Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection
Common Dosage Forms
- Tablet
- Capsule
- Injection solution
Typical Dosage
- For Hepatitis C: 400 mg to 1200 mg per day in divided doses
- For RSV: based on weight and severity of infection
Pediatric Dosage
- Dosage based on weight and age for RSV infection
Geriatric Dosage
- May require dosage adjustment based on renal function
Side Effects
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Anemia
- Rash
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
Contraindications
- Pregnancy (especially during the first trimester)
- Severe renal impairment
- Hypersensitivity to ribavirin
Pregnancy Category
- X - Contraindicated
Lactation Safety
- Limited data; caution advised
Drug Interactions
- Didanosine
- Zidovudine
- Theophylline
Overdose Symptoms
- Hemolytic anemia
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Headache
Antidote for Overdose
- No specific antidote; supportive care
Storage Conditions
- Store at room temperature (15-30°C)
- Protect from light and moisture
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Well absorbed after oral administration
- Distribution: Enters breast milk; crosses the placenta
- Metabolism: Primarily metabolized in the liver
- Excretion: Eliminated in urine
Precautions
- Monitor hemoglobin levels regularly
- Use effective contraception during treatment and for 6 months post-treatment
Warnings
- Risk of severe anemia
- Psychiatric effects including depression and suicidal ideation
Others
- Ribavirin should be used in combination with other antiviral drugs for the treatment of chronic Hepatitis C