Ribavirin
Ribavirin, the active ingredient in Copegus, is an antiviral used alongside interferon to treat chronic hepatitis C. It comes in a 200 mg strength and is never taken alone.
Key points
- Ribavirin is a nucleoside analogue antiviral, indicated for chronic hepatitis C in combination with peginterferon alfa-2a in patients 5 years and older with compensated liver disease.
- Hemolytic anemia is the primary toxicity; it may worsen cardiac disease and lead to fatal or nonfatal heart attacks. Patients with significant or unstable cardiac disease should not receive ribavirin.
- Ribavirin is contraindicated in pregnancy and in male partners of pregnant women; pregnancy must be avoided during therapy and for 6 months after completion.
How does Ribavirin work?
Ribavirin interferes with viral RNA and the cell’s messenger RNA, stopping the hepatitis C virus from replicating inside the body. As a nucleoside analogue, it mimics the building blocks the virus uses to copy its genetic material and disrupts that process. Copegus is the only ribavirin product listed under Hepatitis Treatment.
Further reading
What is ribavirin used for?
Ribavirin is an antiviral used alongside interferon to treat chronic hepatitis C. It is indicated for chronic hepatitis C in combination with peginterferon alfa-2a in patients 5 years and older with compensated liver disease.
How long does ribavirin take to start working?
Ribavirin usually takes 2 to 4 weeks to show its full effect.
What are the side effects of ribavirin?
Common side effects include nausea, headache and fatigue. Other side effects include haemolytic anaemia, insomnia and rash. Severe haemolytic anaemia and severe psychiatric disorders require immediate medical attention.
Can ribavirin be taken with other medicines?
Ribavirin interacts with didanosine and zidovudine. It is never taken alone and is used alongside interferon. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before taking it with other medicines.
Who should not take ribavirin?
Ribavirin is contraindicated in pregnancy and in men whose female partners are pregnant. Pregnancy must be avoided during therapy and for 6 months after completion. It should not be used in people with haemoglobinopathies or severe renal impairment, or in patients with significant or unstable cardiac disease.
What ribavirin products are available?
On Direct Meds, ribavirin comes as Copegus. Compare their forms, strengths and packs.
How is ribavirin priced?
Compare the rand prices for each product, strength and pack above. Prices are converted from US dollars. Larger packs usually cost less per tablet.
Payment and prices →Is ribavirin available over the counter in South Africa?
Yes, online. Direct Meds does not ask for a prescription to order ribavirin. We are a broker, not a dispensing pharmacy. We arrange orders and delivery with our affiliated supplier on your behalf.
Ordering without a prescription →Can I buy ribavirin online in South Africa?
Yes. Our affiliated supplier delivers across South Africa. Estimated delivery is 7 days with Express Delivery, which includes online tracking, or up to 3 weeks with Regular Delivery.
How ordering works →