Ibavyr (Ribavirin)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Prescription RequiredQuick Facts
What Is Ibavyr Used For?
Ibavyr contains ribavirin, an antiviral medication used to treat chronic hepatitis C (CHC), a viral infection that affects the liver.
Primary Uses
Ibavyr is used in combination with other oral agents for treating chronic hepatitis C. It cannot be used alone and must always be combined with other medications. CHC is a viral liver infection that, if left untreated, can cause severe liver damage, scarring (cirrhosis), liver failure, and may be associated with liver cancer development.
How It Works
Ribavirin belongs to a group of medicines called antivirals that work to fight viral infections. It targets different types of hepatitis C virus (called genotypes) when used in combination with other oral agents.
Important: Ibavyr is not effective when used alone and must only be used in combination with other oral agents prescribed by your doctor.
How to Take Ibavyr
Take Ibavyr exactly as your doctor has prescribed. The medication should be taken with food at the same times each day for best results.
Dosage Instructions
The usual dose depends on your weight and hepatitis C genotype, ranging from 600 mg to 1200 mg daily, taken in two divided doses (morning and evening). Take tablets with food, swallow whole with water – do not crush or chew. Treatment typically lasts 12-24 weeks depending on your response. Your doctor will monitor your progress with routine blood tests and may adjust your dose accordingly.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible during the same day. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regular time. Never take a double dose to make up for a missed dose.
Important: Never take a double dose to make up for a missed dose. Always take with food for proper absorption.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- headache
- fatigue
- fever and chills
- weakness
- sleeplessness
- stomach pain, discomfort or constipation
- muscle aches and joint pain
- agitation, irritability, mood swings
- difficulty concentrating
- hair loss or change in hair texture
- itching, rash, dry or red skin
- sore throat
- cough
- shortness of breath
- back pain
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- signs of anemia (tiredness, shortness of breath, pale appearance)
- signs of liver problems (swollen abdomen, lower back or side pain)
- severe stomach pain
- fever or chills beginning after a few weeks of treatment
- persistent cough or shortness of breath
- depression
- confusion, trouble sleeping, thinking or concentrating
- allergic reactions (itchy rash, swelling of face/lips/tongue, wheezing, troubled breathing, faintness)
Important Warnings
There are several important warnings and precautions to be aware of before taking Ibavyr.
Who Should Not Take Ibavyr
Do not take Ibavyr if you are allergic to ribavirin or any ingredients, if you are taking didanosine (HIV medication), or if you have blood disorders including anemia, thalassemia, or sickle-cell anemia. Children under 18 years should not take this medication.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Tell your doctor if you have heart problems (congestive heart failure, irregular heartbeat, heart disease, previous heart attack), anemia, kidney problems, liver problems other than hepatitis C, organ transplant history, or HIV infection.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Do not use Ibavyr if you or your partner is pregnant or planning to become pregnant. This medication may cause birth defects and/or death of an unborn baby. Both partners must use two effective forms of contraception during treatment and for 6 months after treatment ends. Monthly pregnancy tests are required. Stop immediately if pregnancy occurs and contact your doctor. Do not breastfeed while taking Ibavyr.
Pregnancy Warning: Ibavyr can cause serious birth defects. Both male and female partners must use effective contraception during treatment and for 6 months after stopping treatment.
Drug Interactions
Several medications can interfere with Ibavyr and affect how it works. Always tell your doctor about all medications you are taking.
Dangerous Interaction: Never take Ibavyr with didanosine (HIV medication) as this combination is dangerous.
- didanosine (HIV medication) – must not be taken together
- stavudine, zidovudine, or lamivudine (HIV medications)
- azathioprine (used for organ transplant patients)
- medications for severe rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, dermatomyositis/polymyositis, autoimmune chronic active hepatitis, pemphigus vulgaris, polyarteritis nodosa, autoimmune hemolytic anemia, chronic refractory idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious with alcohol consumption and driving while taking Ibavyr, especially when used in combination with other medications.
Alcohol
Tell your doctor if you drink alcohol. Discuss any alcohol consumption with your healthcare provider.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Be careful driving or operating machinery until you know how Ibavyr affects you. If you become drowsy from the combination therapy, do not drive or use machinery.
Storage
Keep Ibavyr in the original bottle until ready to use. Store in a cool, dry place where temperature stays below 25°C (77°F). Keep the bottle tightly closed and away from moisture, heat, and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom, near a sink, in the car, or on window sills. Keep out of reach of children. The bottle has a child-resistant cap – push down and twist counterclockwise to open, place cap on bottle and turn clockwise to close.
Overdose Information
If you think you have taken too much Ibavyr, seek urgent medical attention immediately. Contact the Poisons Information Centre (13 11 26), your doctor, or go to the nearest hospital emergency department, even if you feel fine or have no symptoms of discomfort or poisoning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Treatment with Ibavyr typically lasts 12-24 weeks depending on your response to the medication. Your doctor will monitor your progress with routine blood tests throughout treatment.
Yes, you should take Ibavyr with food or immediately after a meal. Taking it with food helps with proper absorption of the medication.
No, Ibavyr (ribavirin) is an antiviral medication and is not addictive. However, you should not stop taking it without consulting your doctor first.
Do not stop taking Ibavyr or change the dose without first checking with your doctor. Stopping suddenly could affect your hepatitis C treatment outcome.
You should tell your doctor if you drink alcohol. Discuss any alcohol consumption with your healthcare provider as it may affect your liver condition and treatment.
Take the missed dose as soon as possible during the same day. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Never take a double dose.
No, you must not become pregnant while taking Ibavyr or for 6 months after stopping treatment. The medication can cause serious birth defects. Both partners must use two effective forms of contraception and have monthly pregnancy tests.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.