What is this medication for?
Ribavirin belongs to the group of medications known as antivirals. This medication is used in combination with peginterferon alpha to treat people with hepatitis C or hepatitis B (types of liver disease). It works by helping the immune system fight the hepatitis virus, and thus makes it harder for the virus to reproduce within the body.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Copegus® is available as:
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
For hepatitis, the usual dose of ribavarin is 800 mg to 1200 mg taken in two divided doses for a period of 24 to 48 weeks. Ribavirin is only effective for hepatitis when it is used in combination with peginterferon alpha injection.
This medication should be taken with food.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
It is important that this medication be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children. Ribavirin oral solution should be stored in a refrigerator at 36°F to 46°F.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Ribavirin should not be used by anyone who:
- is allergic to ribavirin or any ingredients of the medication
- has or has had autoimmune diseases (including autoimmune hepatitis)
- has decompensated liver disease with or without HIV
- is pregnant or whose partner is pregnant
- has significant or unstable heart disease
- has a red blood cell disorder (e.g., sickle cell anemia, thalassemia)