Active Ingredient	Ribavirin
Manufacturer	Cipla
Origin	India
Reference	N/A

What is Ribamune (Ribavirin) used for?

Ribamune (Ribavirin) is an antiviral medication known as a nucleoside analogue. It is prescribed as part of a treatment plan for people with chronic hepatitis C who have not previously been treated with an interferon. It is used in combination therapy with peginterferon.

Ribavirin is called a nucleoside analogue. This is a type of antiviral medication. It works by stopping the virus that causes hepatitis C from spreading inside the patient's body.

How should I use Ribamune (Ribavirin)?

Ribavirin is never to be used on its own. It will always be taken as part of a complete treatment plan including another drug - usually peginterferon. Your doctor will prescribe a full treatment plan for you.

Ribavirin capsules are taken twice a day - usually with the morning and evening meal. Most times you will take the other drugs in your treatment plan at the same time. Swallow each capsule of Ribamune whole with a glass of water. Your doctor will have prescribed you a specific dose of each medicine. Take only the dosages that has been prescribed, and follow any instructions they have given you.

What are the side effects of Ribamune (Ribavirin)?

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) are:

• 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 following are more severe side effects. Tell your doctor immediately if you notice any of these:

• 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

Please Note

Tell your doctor if:

• you are taking any other medicines
• you have any allergies
• you have had kidney and/or liver problems.
• you are pregnant or trying to become pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding.