Ribavirin (Systemic)
Brand Names : Copegus, Rebetol, Virazole, Virazid, tribavirin
CategoryDescriptionRibavirin (rye-ba-VYE-rin) is used to treat severe
virus pneumonia in infants and young children. It is given by oral inhalation
(breathing in the medicine as a fine mist through the mouth), using a special
nebulizer (sprayer) attached to an oxygen hood or tent or face mask.
Ribavirin taken by mouth (oral) treats a viral liver infection known as
hepatitis C. It is used in combination with injectable interferon alfa-2b (in-ter-FEER-on AL-fa-2b) or with injectable peginterferon
alfa-2b (peg-in-ter-FEER-on AL-fa-2b). Ribavirin
is used to treat virus infections. Interferons are substances naturally produced
by cells in the body to help fight infections and tumors. Interferon alfa-2b
and peginterferon alfa-2b are synthetic (man-made) versions of these substances.
Interferon alfa-2b and peginterferon alfa-2b are used to treat a variety of
tumors and viruses including the hepatitis C virus.
Ribavirin is available in the following dosage forms:
Inhalation
-
For inhalation solution (U.S. and Canada)
Oral
-
Capsules (U.S.)
-
Oral solution (U.S.)
-
Tablets (U.S.)
Brand NamesSome commonly used brand names are:
In the U.S. -
In Canada -
Virazid
Another commonly used name is tribavirin
.
|