Ribavirin
| Overview |
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- Ribavirin is a broadbased antiviral agent and can inhibit replication of a variety of DNA and RNA viruses. Clinically, ribavirin is used in combination with Pegylated Interferon for treatment of chronic Hepatitis C Virus infection. Severe RSV infections are also frequently treated with ribavirin.
| Mechanism of Action |
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- The detailed mechanism of action of ribavarin is not completely understood. The drug is nucleoside analog and is tri-phosphorylated to a nucleotide analog by host cell enzymes in the nucleotide synthetic pathway. The tri-phosphorylated species of the drug appears to interfere with multiple aspects of viral RNA synthesis and maturation.
| Adverse Effects |
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- Anemia due to bone marrow suppression