Medications and Drugs

GENERIC NAME: RIBAVIRIN (ORAL) AND INTERFERON ALPHA-2B (INJECTION) (rye-buh-VYE-rin/in-ter-FEER-on)

BRAND NAME(S): Rebetron

Warning | Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert

WARNING: Because the ribavirin in this combination product has cause birth defects and fetal death, it must not be used during pregnancy. Men and women of childbearing potential must avoid pregnancy and use 2 forms of effective birth control (contraception) during treatment with this product and for 6 months after this medication has been stopped. The interferon can cause or worsen some serious medical conditions including psychiatric conditions (e.g., depression), immune system problems (autoimmune conditions such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis), circulation problems (e.g., cardiovascular disease/blood clots), or infections (bone marrow suppression). If your medical history includes these conditions, inform your doctor promptly. Also, tell your doctor immediately if any serious symptoms or side effects occur (see Side Effects section). These conditions occur infrequently, but some can be fatal.

USES: This combination of medications is used to treat certain viral infections.

HOW TO USE: Take the ribavirin by mouth, usually twice daily with or without food; or as directed by your doctor. It is important to take this medication consistently either with food or without food. Taking it inconsistently (sometimes with food, sometimes without food) may decrease the effectiveness and/or increase your risk of side effects. It may be best to take this medicine with food (more medicine might be absorbed into your bloodstream). The interferon is injected under the skin (SC) three times a week or as directed. Use at bedtime may minimize flu-like side effects. Learn all the preparation and administration instructions in the product package and ask your doctor or pharmacist if you are unclear on any information. Dosage is based on your condition and response to treatment. Drink plenty of fluids while using these drugs unless otherwise directed. Antiviral medications work best when the amount of medicine in your body is kept at a constant level. Do this by taking the medication at about the same time each day as directed. Continue to use these products until the full prescribed amount is finished even if symptoms disappear after a short time. Do not use if the liquid contains particles or is discolored. Make sure needles and any medical supplies are stored safely and disposed of properly. Consult your pharmacist or nurse.