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Ribavirin (Copegus, Rebetol)

By , About.com Guide

Updated: November 16, 2008

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

What is Ribavirin?:
  • In its oral form, Ribivirin is used to treat Hepatitis C
  • Most often it is used in combination with an Interferon such as Pegasys
Form:
Available in capsule, tablet and oral solution.
Dosage:
  • The dose of Ribavirin varies from patient to patient based on body weight.
  • The typical dose is between 1000mg and 1200mg each day.
  • The oral solution is used primarily in children.
Side Effects to Report to Your Doctor:
  • More common
    • Acid or "sour" stomach
    • discouragement
    • dizziness
    • feeling sad or empty
    • feeling unusually cold with shivering
    • irritability
    • itching skin
    • lack of appetite
    • loss of interest or pleasure
    • lack or loss of strength
    • trouble concentrating
    • trouble sleeping

  • Less common
    • cough
    • fatigue
    • fever
    • headache
    • joint pain
    • depression
    • nervousness
    • rapidly changing moods
    • rash
    • shortness of breath
    • vomiting
To learn more:
To learn more about Ribavirin check out About.com's Drug Finder.
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