Ribavirin is used with an interferon medication to treat Hepatitis C in people who have not been treated with an interferon before. Ribavirin is in a class of antiviral medications called nucleoside analogues. It works by stopping the virus that causes hepatitis C from spreading inside the body. It is not known if treatment that includes ribavirin and another medication cures hepatitis C infection, prevents liver damage that may be caused by hepatitis C, or prevents the spread of hepatitis C to other people.

Essentially, Ribavirin prevents the chronic Hepatitis C virus from being able to copy itself, and it warns nearby cells in the body to increase their defenses against a viral infection like hepatitis. Ribavirin, which fights different kinds of viruses, was initially created to help treat a type of viral respiratory infection in children. When it was tested on chronic Hepatitis C, the drug never produced sustained results in patients. However, when doctors tested the combination of orally ingested ribavirin with injections of interferon alpha-2b, they found that the two drugs worked together to create a much more lasting effect than interferon alpha-2b on its own.

Ribavirin can interact with other medications, herbs, or vitamins you might be taking. That’s why your doctor should manage all of your medications carefully. If you’re curious about how this drug might interact with something else you’re taking, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

Don’t take Ribavirin with a high fat meal. This can increase the amount of the drug in your blood. Take your medication with a low-fat meal.

Ribavirin may cause side effects. Tesll your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away: cough; upset stomach; vomiting; diarrhea; constipation; heartburn; loss of appetite; weight loss; changes in ability to taste food; dry mouth; difficulty concentrating; difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep; memory loss; rash; dry, irritated, or itchy skin; sweating; painful or irregular menstruation (period); muscle or bone pain; hair loss.

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store Ribavirin tablets and capsules at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Store Ribavirin oral solution in the refrigerator or at room temperature. Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.