Ribavirin
Also known as: Tribavirin
Ribavirin is antiviral agent. Ribavirin is a synthetic guanosine analogue. Ribavirin is active against several DNA and RNA viruses. Ribavirin is administered to infants and young children with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) severe chest infections or pneumonia.
Primary Characteristics
Ribavirin is also known as Tribavirin.
It is of Synthetic origin and belongs to Triazoribose.
It belongs to Antiviral Agents pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action. It is also classified under Antiviral Agents .
Molecular Weight: 244.2 · Solubility in Water: 1 in 7 · Solubility in Alcohol: poor · Non-proprietary name: Ribavirin.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Ribavirin has an oral bioavailability is 45%.
Distribution: Ribavirin has a volume of distribution is 647 litre. plasma protein binding is < 10 %.
Elimination: it is metabolised via Hepatic and Renal, plasma half-life is 2 hr (beta phase), renal excretion is 35(27-43)%.
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Indications
Ribavirin is primarily indicated in conditions like Bronchitis, Metastatic melanoma, Metastatic melanoma, Pneumonia, Rsv infection, Treatment of chronic hepatitis C virus.
Contraindications
Ribavirin is contraindicated in conditions like Haemoglobinopathies, Hypersensitivity reactions, Pregnancy, Autoimmune hepatitis.
Dosage
Ribavirin's dosage details are as follows:
| Dose | Single Dose | Frequency | Route | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dosage | ||||
| 400 mg | 400 mg | Every 12h | PO | For Hapatitis C, for 6 months. |
| Paediatric Dosage (20kg) | ||||
| 3.75 mg/kg | 3.75 mg/kg | Every 8h | Oral | For 1-2 Weeks |
| Neonatal Dosage (3kg) | ||||
| 4.687 mg/kg | 4.687 mg/kg | Every 8h | Oral | |
Drug Interactions
Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Side Effects
Ribavirin is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Decrease in RBC , Fatigue, GI disturbance, Headache, Insomnia, Metallic taste, Mood swings, Thirst.
Warnings / Precautions
Interference in Pathology
Ribavirin may interfere in the diagnosis of Increases Serum Bilirubin , Increases serum uric acid.
Available Brands
Storage Conditions
Drug Classification
- 1.6.5.3
- 2.6.5.3
- 3.13.2.2 — Antivirals, topical
Manufacturers
Manufacturers of Ribavirin in Pakistan: