| Brand Name: |
Ribamune |
| Generic Name: |
Ribavirine |
| Form: |
Tablets |
| Manufacturer: |
Cipla |
What is Ribamune?
Ribamune (Ribavirin) is an antiviral medication of the nucleoside analogue class. It is used to treat treatment chronic hepatitis C in cases where the patient has not previously been treated with an interferon. Ribavirin is never taken alone. It is always prescribed as part of a full treatment plan for people with chronic hepatitis C, usually in combination therapy with peginterferon. Ribavirin is an antiviral that prevents the virus that causes hepatitis C from spreading frther through the body.
How is Ribamune used?
Your doctor will prescribe you a suitable dosage of Ribavirin capsules and any other medicines to be taken along with it. Capsules are usually taken taken twice daily with food (most often with the morning and evening meal). Swallow each capsule of Ribavirin whole with a glass of water.
Ribavirin is only ever prescribed as part of an overall treatment plan for Hepatits C including some other drugs. Often this will be peginterferon.
Adverse effects
Ribamune (Ribavirin) and peginterferon can cause some unwanted side effects. Some are common and should pass over time, while others should be treated as more threatening.
Common side effects associated with Ribamune (Ribavirin) may include:
- 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
The list below contains some more serious side effects associated with Ribavirin. Tell your doctor immediately if you notice:
- hives
- swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
- hoarseness
- difficulty swallowing or breathing
- pain in the stomach or lower back
- bloody diarrhea
- bright red blood in stools
- black, tarry stools
- stomach bloating
- confusion
- dark-colored urine
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
- unusual bleeding or bruising
- vision changes
- fever, chills, and other signs of infection
- depression
- thinking about hurting or killing yourself
- mood changes
- excessive worry
- irritability
- starting to use street drugs or alcohol again if you used these substances in the past
- intolerance to cold
Warnings
Your doctor will advise if Ribavirin is a suitable treatment for you based on your medical history.
Do not take Ribavirin if you are pregnant or trying to become pregnant. Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding.
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