Ribavirin
Ribavirin is a synthetic nucleoside analog with broad-spectrum antiviral activity. It stops the virus that causes hepatitis C or RSV from spreading within the body. Oral ribavirin is always used as part of a combination regimen for hepatitis C and is never used alone. It has a boxed warning for hemolytic anemia and significant teratogenic risks.
Dosage by Body Weight
Dosage is highly individualized based on the patient's body weight, the specific viral genotype being treated, and renal function. It must be administered with food to increase absorption. Strict adherence to contraception is required during and for 6 months after stopping treatment due to severe teratogenic risks.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- Not recommended
- Frequency
- N/A
- Tracking Notes
- Safety and efficacy have not been established in patients in this weight range.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- Not routinely used
- Frequency
- N/A
- Tracking Notes
- Oral ribavirin is typically restricted to pediatric patients aged 3 years and older who generally weigh more than this range.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- 120 mg to 150 mg daily
- Frequency
- Divided into 2 daily doses (morning and evening) with food
- Tracking Notes
- Dosed at approximately 15 mg/kg/day for pediatric hepatitis C. Requires use of oral solution for accurate dosing.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- 165 mg to 225 mg daily
- Frequency
- Divided into 2 daily doses (morning and evening) with food
- Tracking Notes
- Based on 15 mg/kg/day guideline. Close monitoring of hemoglobin and renal function is mandatory.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- 240 mg to 300 mg daily
- Frequency
- Divided into 2 daily doses (morning and evening) with food
- Tracking Notes
- Based on 15 mg/kg/day standard pediatric dosing. Swallow capsules/tablets whole if the child is able, otherwise use oral solution.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | Not recommended | N/A | Safety and efficacy have not been established in patients in this weight range. |
| 5-7 kg | Not routinely used | N/A | Oral ribavirin is typically restricted to pediatric patients aged 3 years and older who generally weigh more than this range. |
| 8-10 kg | 120 mg to 150 mg daily | Divided into 2 daily doses (morning and evening) with food | Dosed at approximately 15 mg/kg/day for pediatric hepatitis C. Requires use of oral solution for accurate dosing. |
| 11-15 kg | 165 mg to 225 mg daily | Divided into 2 daily doses (morning and evening) with food | Based on 15 mg/kg/day guideline. Close monitoring of hemoglobin and renal function is mandatory. |
| 16-20 kg | 240 mg to 300 mg daily | Divided into 2 daily doses (morning and evening) with food | Based on 15 mg/kg/day standard pediatric dosing. Swallow capsules/tablets whole if the child is able, otherwise use oral solution. |
Formulation
Purpose
Used primarily in combination with other antiviral medications (like peginterferon or direct-acting antivirals) to treat chronic hepatitis C. The inhaled form is used to treat severe respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection in hospitalized infants and young children.
Generic Name
RibavirinBranded Drug Names
Ribavirin is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.