Ribamune

Ribamune (Ribavirin) is used in combination therapy with peginterferon in the treatment of chronic hepatitis C. It can be used in patients who have not been treated with an interferon previously. It works by stopping the virus that causes hepatitis C from spreading inside the body.

Ribavirin should not be taken alone. It will always be prescribed alongside another drug - usually peginterferon.

Ribavirin capsules are usually taken twice a day. They should be swallowed whole with a glass of water and taken with food. Take only the dosage that has been prescribed by your doctor and follow any instructions they have given you.

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

Tell your doctor if any of these become troublesome or do not go away over time.

The following potential side effects can be more severe. Contact 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

Tell your doctor of any other medicines you are taking, as well as any allergies you have prior to taking Ribamune (Ribavirin).

Tell you doctor if you have had kidney and/or liver problems.

Tell you doctor if you are pregnant or trying to become pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding.