Rebetol

Drug Title

Rebetol (Ribavirin)

Drug Uses

Rebetol is an antiviral medication is. It is used to treat hepatitis C. It does not work for colds, flu and other viral infections.

The attending physician should know if you have any of these conditions:

• cancer
• diseases of the blood
• diabetes mellitus
• drug abuse or addiction
• heart disease
• depression, anxiety
• immune system problems
• kidney disease
• low blood counts, like low white cell, platelet or red blood cells
• Lung and respiratory diseases such as asthma
• pregnancy
• Other diseases of the liver
• Thyroid disease
• unusual or allergic reaction to Rebetol, interferons, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives nourishing

MODE OF APPLICATION

Take this medicine with a full glass of water. Take it regularly with meals. Do not take drugs more often than directed. Take all medicines as intended. Do not skip doses or stop taking medicine early.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this drug in children. Particular attention may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine immediately consult a doctor.
NOTE: Do not take this drug with other drugs.

MISSED DOSE

If you miss a dose and remember the same day, take it as soon as you remember. If a day has passed, ask your doctor what to do. Do not take double or extra doses.
Interaction with other medicinal products

• ABC
• ddI
• FTC
• lamivudine
• stavudine
• zalcitabine
• zidovudine

Tell your doctor about all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. In addition, inform your doctor if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs.

STORAGE

Keep out of reach of children.
Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit).
Do not use after expiry date.

IT IS IMPORTANT:

Tell your doctor about all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. In addition, inform your doctor if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs.
Tell your doctor if symptoms do not improve or if they become worse.

This medication can cause birth defects or death of an unborn child. Women taking this drug should avoid pregnancy while taking this drug and within 6 months after stopping this medication. Men who take this medication should avoid becoming pregnant woman while taking this drug and within 6 months after stopping this medication. Use the methods of contraception. Women should avoid pregnancy before starting treatment. Use monthly pregnancy tests while you are taking this drug and within 6 months after taking the drug. Talk to your doctor if you think that you or your partner is pregnant or trying to get pregnant.

Do not drink alcohol; it can lead to worsening of liver disease. Drowsiness or dizziness can appear. Do not drive; do not use equipment until you know your reaction to the drug. Do not stand or sit sharply, especially if you are elderly. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells.

There may be a dry mouth. Eat sugar-free gum or candy, and drink plenty of fluids. Contact your doctor if the problem goes away or is severe. Brush your teeth twice a day thoroughly and pass inspection dentist. Also, if you have vomiting is present, rinse your mouth.

Side effects that you should tell your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of face, lips, or tongue
• pain in your back or stomach
• black or bloody diarrhea
• breathing problems
• changes in vision
• pain in the chest
• dark urine
• depression, suicidal thoughts
• dizziness, fever chills, sore throat
• flu-like symptoms
• unusually colored stools
• nausea
• lack of menstruation
• abdominal pain
• unusual bleeding
• fatigue
• yellowing of eyes or skin

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention

• cough
• difficulty hearing or ringing in the ears
• an increase in hunger and thirst
• increased urination
• itchy skin

This list does not describe all possible side effects.