Copegus (Ribivirine)

Copegus (Ribvirine) is an antiviral usually used with Peginterferon or interferon to treat Hepatitis C. Hepatitis C can be hard to control as there can be infections and chronic health issues to worry about. There are certain forms of medicine that can be part of an overall treatment plan to reduce the health problems involved.

What is Copegus Used for?

It is known that Copegus is an antiviral medicine, but exactly how it is able to help with the concerns related to Hepatitis C isn’t really known. However, it does have a very high success rate for reducing those symptoms which is very encouraging.

Copegus Dosing & Administration

Before a woman start taking Copegus, the doctor will do a pregnancy test to confirm that she isn’t pregnant. It needs to be taken daily by mouth with food to reduce the risk of nausea occurring. It is very important to take the medicine every day to control the symptoms of Hepatitis C until your doctor tells you to no longer take it. Copegus isn’t a cure for that ailment.

It is important to drink extra fluids while taking Copegus, especially water. Try to take it at the same time each day for the most benefit. The dose will vary based on many factors including weight, other medicines, overall health, and the severity of the symptoms relating to Hepatitis C. The doctor will start you on the lowest possible dose and monitor your progress with it. The goal is to offer the most benefit with the least amount of medication and the least side effects.

Copegus Side Effects & Precautions

The use of Copegus is very dangerous for a woman who is pregnant. It can cause very serious birth defects or even death for the baby. Copegus shouldn’t be taken by males who are having intercourse with a woman who is pregnant. Women taking Copegus need to take additional precautions to make sure that a pregnancy doesn’t occur. It isn’t recommended for a pregnancy to occur within 6 months of the medicine use stopping.

Individuals with heart disease shouldn’t take Copegus as it can significantly increase the risk of a fatal heart attack. Individuals with blood disorders or pancreas disease should talk with their doctor about the risks of using this medication. It may be deemed that the potential benefits outweigh the risks. It has to be evaluated on a case by case basis. Individuals with liver problems need to be closely monitored. If the liver is getting worse, then Copegus will be ended as part of the treatment. Do not consume alcohol while using Copegus.

There may be various side effects that occur when you take Copegus. They include:

• Blurred vision
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Drowsiness
• Fatigue
• Headaches
• Insomnia
• Nausea
• Sore gums
• Weaken immune system

It is important to understand the use of Copegus could increase the risk of suicidal thoughts. Those with mental health concerns need to be closely monitored with this medication.