A purine nucleoside - It is used with peginterferon alfa to treat hepatitis C
FDA Alerts
Ribavirin monotherapy is not effective for treatment of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and should not be used alone for this indication.
The principal toxicity of oral ribavirin is hemolytic anemia which may result in worsening of cardiac disease and has resulted in fatal and nonfatal MI. Patients with a history of substantial or unstable cardiac disease should not be given ribavirin.
Teratogenic and/or embryocidal effects demonstrated. Ribavirin has a long half-life and may persist in nonplasma compartments for as long as 6 months. Contraindicated in pregnant women and in male partners of women who are pregnant. Extreme care must be taken to avoid pregnancy during and for 6 months following ribavirin therapy in female patients and in female partners of male patients receiving ribavirin. At least 2 reliable forms of contraception must be used during and for 6 months following completion of treatment.
Initiation of aerosolized ribavirin (given by nasal or oral inhalation) in infants has resulted in sudden deterioration of respiratory function. Monitor respiratory function carefully. If sudden deterioration of respiratory function occurs, discontinue therapy. Reinstitute with extreme caution and continuous monitoring; consider concomitant administration of a bronchodilator.
Ribavirin for nasal or oral inhalation is not indicated in adults.
Administer aerosolized ribavirin under the supervision of and by qualified clinicians and support staff experienced with the specific ventilator and mode of administration. Attention must be directed to procedures that minimize accumulation of drug precipitate, which can result in mechanical ventilator dysfunction and associated increased pulmonary pressure.
Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. You can take this medicine with or without food, but you should take it the same way every day. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Take all of your medicine as directed even if you think you are better. Do not skip doses or stop your medicine early.
A special MedGuide will be given to you by the pharmacist with each prescription and refill. Be sure to read this information carefully each time.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 5 years of age for selected conditions, precautions do apply.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose and remember the same day, take it as soon as you remember. If the whole day has passed, ask your healthcare provider what to do. Do not take double or extra doses.
What may interact with this medicine?
Do not take this medicine with the following medication:
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
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