Ribavirin
Rx
Generic NameRibavirin
Therapeutic ClassAntiviral (Nucleoside analogue)
Common Strength200 mg, 400 mg capsules; 20 mg/mL oral solution; 6 g inhalation powder
PregnancyContraindicated
Indications ▼
Chronic Hepatitis C: In combination with interferon or other antivirals to achieve sustained virologic response.
RSV Infection: Inhalation therapy for severe lower respiratory tract infections in infants and immunocompromised patients.
Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers: Lassa fever and other severe viral infections, under specialist supervision.
Mechanism & Pharmacokinetics ▼
Mechanism: Guanosine analogue; inhibits viral RNA polymerase and disrupts viral RNA synthesis and replication.
Pharmacokinetics: Oral bioavailability ~45–65%; peak plasma 1–2 hours; metabolized in liver; half-life 120–170 hours; excreted primarily in urine.
Dosage & Administration ▼
| Patient Category | Recommended Dose | Max / 24h |
|---|---|---|
| Adults (Hepatitis C) | 800–1200 mg/day orally in 2–3 divided doses, depending on weight | 1200 mg |
| Children (≥3 years) | 15 mg/kg/day orally in 2–3 divided doses | 1000 mg |
| RSV Infection (Inhalation) | 20 mg/mL via aerosol 12–18 h/day for 3–7 days | — |
Note: Administer with food to improve absorption. Monitor hemoglobin and renal function. Avoid in pregnancy; effective contraception required during treatment.
Side Effects ▼
Hemolytic anemia
Fatigue, headache
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
Insomnia, irritability
Rash, cough, dyspnea
Teratogenic: severe fetal harm if exposed during pregnancy
Contraindications ▼
Pregnancy (Category X)
Severe anemia or hemolytic disorders
Hypersensitivity to ribavirin
Significant renal or hepatic impairment (dose adjustment required)
Drug Interaction ▼
Didanosine: increased risk of toxicity
Azathioprine: additive hematologic toxicity
Other antivirals: monitor for overlapping toxicity
Pregnancy & Lactation ▼
Contraindicated during pregnancy
Avoid breastfeeding
Clinical / Research Summary ▼
Clinical Role: Broad-spectrum antiviral; used in chronic HCV, RSV, and viral hemorrhagic fevers.
Advantage: Effective in combination therapy; multiple administration routes.
Limitation: Hemolytic anemia, teratogenicity; requires monitoring.
Monitoring: CBC, renal and hepatic function, pregnancy status.
Patient Counseling Points ▼
Take with food to improve absorption
Use effective contraception during and 6 months after therapy
Report fatigue, pallor, shortness of breath
Regular blood tests required
Storage & Handling ▼
Store at 20–25°C
Protect from light and moisture
Keep out of reach of children
Brand Names (Bangladesh & Global) ▼
Rivarin
Viracin
Covirin
Copeg
Celbarin
Copegus
Rebetol
Virazole
Ribasphere
Ibavirin
Medical Disclaimer: For educational purposes only. Not a substitute for professional medical advice.
.png)
