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Printable Version Ribavirin Inhalation

Active Ingredients: Ribavirin Inhalation
Other Names: Virazole Inhalation
Drug Class: Anti-virals
Rx Status: Available by prescription only
Generic Available: No
Product Images & Descriptions:

What is/are Ribavirin Inhalation?
What should I tell my health care providers before I take this medicine?
How should I use this medicine?
What if I miss a dose?
What may interact with this medicine?
What side effects may I notice from this medicine?
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Where should I keep this medicine?

What is/are Ribavirin Inhalation? (Back to top)
RIBAVIRIN is an antiviral medicine. It is used to treat severe respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in hospitalized children. This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.


What should I tell my health care providers before I take this medicine? (Back to top)
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • heart problems
  • on a ventilator for breathing assistance
  • an unusual or allergic reaction to ribavirin, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine? (Back to top)
This medicine is for inhalation through the mouth. It is given by specially trained personnel in a hospital setting.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

Note: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.


What if I miss a dose? (Back to top)
This does not apply.


What may interact with this medicine? (Back to top)

  • medicines to treat HIV like zidovudine (AZT), lamivudine, stavudine (d4T)

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care providers a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.


What side effects may I notice from this medicine? (Back to top)
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
  • breathing problems
  • chest pain, soreness
  • fever
  • lips or nail beds with bluish color
  • seizures
  • unusual blood pressure or heart rate
  • unusually weak or tired

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
  • headache
  • irritated, watery eyes
  • runny nose

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.


What should I watch for while using this medicine? (Back to top)
Your condition will be monitored carefully while you are receiving this medicine.

Visitors and health care workers are at risk of exposure to this medicine by breathing mist from the air. Talk to the doctor for more information. If you are pregnant or breast-feeding talk with the doctor before visiting a patient who is on this medicine.

Do not become pregnant while taking this medicine. Women should inform their doctor if they wish to become pregnant or think they might be pregnant. There is a potential for serious side effects to an unborn child. Talk to your health care professional or pharmacist for more information.


Where should I keep this medicine? (Back to top)
This drug is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.


Last Updated:March 03, 2008

COPYRIGHT© Gold Standard, An Elsevier Company


Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before taking the product.

  Additional Information

  Check Drug Interactions with Ribavirin Inhalation

  Learn how Ribavirin Inhalation is/are used to treat:
  • Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)

      Learn more about using Inhalers

      Test Yourself! If you currently take Ribavirin Inhalation, do you know everything that you need to know?

      Make your own printable Medication / Emergency Contact Card



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