What is Ribavirin (inhalation)?
Ribavirin is an antiviral medication that is used to treat babies and children with severe respiratory infections caused by respiratory syncytial virus.Ribavirin can be used in other ways not mentioned in this guide.
Side effects of Ribavirin (inhalation)
Seek emergency medical attention if you notice any of these signs in your child: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the lips, face, tongue, or throat.You will be able to monitor your baby closely during the treatment with ribavirin. If your baby develops any problems, a healthcare professional may need to treat them.
Sudden respiratory problems can occur. Inform your baby's caregivers immediately if you notice any of the following side effects:
- Fever, cough;
- Breathing shallowly
- Limping or extreme weakness.
- Gasping for air;
- Blue-colored lips and cold, clammy skin
- Cough with mucus
- Other worsening breathing problems
It is possible, although unlikely, that ribavirin could be inhaled in quantities high enough to cause adverse effects on people who are in close contact with a child receiving ribavirin. If you experience any of the following side effects when caring for a child, tell your doctor.
- Shortness of breath, chest pain
- Sore throat.
- Headache, dizziness;
- Nausea;
- Is a rash
- Redness of the eyes, watery eyes
Adults may experience symptoms similar to those of an RSV infection. Any new symptoms should be reported to your doctor immediately.There may be other side effects. Need advice regarding adverse side effects? Seek medical assistance immediately by consulting your physician.The FDA can be contacted at 1-800-FDA-1088 to report side effects.
Similar/related drugs
Epclusa, Harvoni, Mavyret, Arexvy, sofosbuvir/velpatasvir , Abrysvo, and ribavirin
Warnings
This medicine can cause sudden breathing problems in your child. The lung function of your child will be checked frequently.
Before you take this drug
If your child has an allergy to ribavirin, you should not treat him with it (such as Rebetol or ribapak). Ribasphere and ribatab).Ribavirin is only for young children. However, it can cause birth defects or harm to an unborn child.Inhaling ribavirin is not recommended for women who are pregnant or who may become pregnant, or for men with a partner who is pregnant.
How to take Ribavirin (inhalation)?
In a hospital, a healthcare provider will administer this medication to your baby.Inhalation of ribavirin is done with a machine that releases the aerosol medicine into a tent or oxygen hood. The medicine can be inhaled by your child over a longer period of time.Inhalation of ribavirin is typically given for 12 to 18 hours per day for 3–7 days.While your child is receiving this medication, small amounts of ribavirin can be released into the air. Anyone who is in close proximity to the child could be exposed to ribavirin that is released into the air.The lung function of your child will be regularly tested. Your doctor may prescribe bronchodilator medications to improve your child’s breathing.If your baby is receiving ribavirin, you may need to take special precautions in order to prevent exposure to airborne ribavirin. Follow all instructions when handling your child or being in close proximity to him.Women who may become pregnant are advised to avoid contact with the baby. Take all necessary safety precautions to minimize your exposure to ribavirin.You may be at risk for infection if you are in close proximity to a child with RSV. If you experience symptoms like a headache, stuffy or runny nose, sore neck, cough, fever, or hoarseness, then seek medical attention.Ribavirin should only be administered to babies and children under the age of five. Adults are not allowed to use this product.
What happens if I miss the dose?
A missed dose is unlikely because your child will be receiving ribavirin vapor in a clinical environment.
What happens if I overdose?
Overdoses are unlikely because ribavirin will be administered by a healthcare provider in a medical environment.
What should be avoided?
You should always follow your doctor's advice regarding any restrictions that you need to observe when caring for an infant who is being treated with medicine.
Interaction with other drug
The caregivers of your child will monitor and manage all medication given to them during the treatment with ribavirin.This includes vitamins, minerals, or herbal products. Do not give your child vitamins or minerals.
