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Rebetol

ribavirin (oral) (rye ba VYE rin)
Copegus, Rebetol

In combination with the interferon drugs Intron A or PEG-Intron, Rebetol is prescribed to treat chronic hepatitis C. Rebetol is always used with one of the other drugs. By itself, it is ineffective against hepatitis C. Generic Rebetol (RIBAVIRIN) is a nucleoside analog antiviral medicine that is used in combination with interferon to treat chronic hepatitis C infection.

Rebetol Dosage

• The dosage depends on your body weight. The usual dose for individuals weighing 165 pounds or less is 400 milligrams in the morning and 600 milligrams in the evening. The usual daily dose for individuals weighing over 165 pounds is 1,200 milligrams divided into 2 doses.
• Children who weigh 134 pounds or more will usually take the adult dose listed above. For children who weigh less than 134 pounds, the doctor will adjust the dose accordingly based on the child's weight.

Uses of Rebetol

• This medicine is a nucleoside analog antiviral medicine that is used in combination with interferon to treat chronic hepatitis C infection.
• Ribavirin (rye-ba-VYE-rin) is used to treat severe virus pneumonia in infants and young children.

Side Effects of Rebetol

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor immediately. Only your doctor can determine whether it is safe for you to continue taking Rebetol. Side effects may include:

• Anemia, blood disorder, depression, fatigue, fever, hair loss, headache, insomnia, irritability, joint or muscle pain, nausea, shortness of breath, weight loss.

Warnings and precautions before taking Rebetol:

• The risk of side effects is greater for individuals with poor kidney function. If you have this problem, your doctor will monitor you closely and adjust your dosage if necessary. Since many older adults have impaired kidney, liver, and heart function, the dosage of Rebetol is often decreased for these individuals.
• This medicine may cause some people to become dizzy, drowsy, or less alert than they are normally. Make sure you know how you react to this medicine before you drive, operate machinery or do anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert.
• Ribavirin may cause birth defects and/or fetal death when used during pregnancy.

Drug Interaction :- If Rebetol is taken with other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Check with your doctor before combining Rebetol with other medications.

Overdose

No adverse effects of Rebetol overdose have been reported. Nevertheless, any medication taken in excess may have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose of Rebetol, seek medical attention immediately.