Rebetol; ribavirin

There are two very serious potential side effects associated with ribavirin: anemia and birth defects/miscarriage/stillbirth. The anemia caused by ribavirin can be very severe and can happen very quickly, usually within the first 1–2 weeks of starting treatment. Anemia can cause severe fatigue, dizziness, headaches, and shortness of breath; routine blood testing for anemia, neutropenia, and other blood conditions is recommended. The anemia may also cause or worsen cardiac conditions.

The other major side effect is birth defects or fetal death in pregnant women. Pregnant women, women who are trying to become pregnant, and males whose female partners are pregnant should not take ribavirin. Women of childbearing age and their male sexual partners must use two forms of birth control throughout treatment and for six months post-treatment. It is unknown if ribavirin passes through breast milk or the impact it could have on breastfeeding babies.

Other side effects that have been reported with ribavirin include rash, itching, and a small risk of pancreatitis. If you experience any symptoms related to pancreatitis (severe stomach pain that radiates to your back, nausea, vomiting, and/or diarrhea) you should consult a medical provider or go to an emergency department for evaluation. If you have renal (kidney) disease, talk with your medical provider about potential dosage adjustments as the levels of ribavirin can be increased dramatically. Some people who are taking ribavirin experience what is commonly called “riba-rage,” that is they get easily irritated and get angry easier.

Ribavirin cannot be used with the HIV medication didanosine (Videx-EC, Videx, ddI) as this combination can lead to potentially fatal levels of ddI. Similarly, azathioprine (an immunosuppressive) cannot be used due to increased concentrations of azathioprine. Use caution if ribavirin is given with zidovudine, lamivudine, or stavudine (medications to treat HIV) due to potential for worsening side effects (anemia) and possible loss of HIV viral suppression (controversial if this actually occurs).

It’s not entirely understood how ribavirin works against HCV. It previously played a major part in HCV treatment for years when used in combination with interferon but is now generally reserved for certain patient populations with severe hepatic impairment. We are essentially in the ribavirin-free era with many of the current HCV DAAs.

If you need to take ribavirin, the side effects can be difficult. If you become anemic while on ribavirin, your medical provider may need to adjust the dose accordingly. The anemia often happens quickly, so get blood tests to monitor it early in your treatment. “Riba-rage” is not a common occurrence, but it’s good to be aware and (if disclosing HCV status is not an issue) telling the people around you about it so you can get the support you need to minimize its impact.