Copegus: Advanced Ribavirin Therapy for Chronic Hepatitis C
| Product dosage: 200mg | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Package (num) | Per cap | Price | Buy |
| 30 | $5.71 | $171.29 (0%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 60 | $5.19 | $342.58 $311.53 (9%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 90 | $5.03
Best per cap | $513.87 $452.77 (12%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
Synonyms | |||
Copegus is a critical antiviral medication formulated with ribavirin, designed for use in combination therapy to combat chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. As a nucleoside analogue, it inhibits viral replication, significantly enhancing sustained virological response rates when paired with peginterferon alfa. This combination approach targets the virus through dual mechanisms, offering a robust treatment strategy for appropriate patient populations under strict medical supervision.
Features
- Contains ribavirin as the active pharmaceutical ingredient
- Available in 200 mg film-coated tablets for precise dosing
- Manufactured under cGMP (current Good Manufacturing Practices) standards
- Packaged in blister strips to ensure stability and ease of use
- Requires prescription and medical monitoring throughout treatment
Benefits
- Increases the likelihood of achieving sustained virological response (SVR)
- Reduces viral load and liver inflammation markers
- Helps prevent progression to cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, or liver failure
- Contributes to long-term remission in responsive genotypes
- Supports improved quality of life post-treatment success
- Works synergistically with interferon-based therapies
Common use
Copegus is indicated in combination with peginterferon alfa for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C in patients with compensated liver disease, including previously untreated patients and those who have relapsed after initial interferon therapy. It is used across multiple HCV genotypes, with dosing and duration tailored to viral genotype, patient weight, and treatment history.
Dosage and direction
Dosage is weight-based and genotype-dependent. For genotype 1 or 4: <75 kg: 1000 mg/day; ≥75 kg: 1200 mg/day. For genotype 2 or 3: 800 mg/day. Total daily dose is administered orally in two divided doses with food. Duration typically ranges from 24 to 48 weeks based on viral response and genotype. Always follow the prescribing physician’s instructions precisely; do not adjust dose without consultation.
Precautions
- Treatment must be managed by a physician experienced in hepatitis C management
- Pregnancy must be avoided during treatment and for 6 months post-therapy due to teratogenic risks
- Regular monitoring of hematological parameters (hemoglobin, neutrophils, platelets) is mandatory
- Cardiac assessment recommended for patients with history of cardiovascular disease
- Patients with renal impairment require dose adjustment or avoidance
- Ophthalmological exams advised for patients with pre-existing diabetic or hypertensive retinopathy
Contraindications
- Pregnancy or men with pregnant partners
- Patients with autoimmune hepatitis
- History of severe psychiatric conditions, particularly depression
- Hemoglobinopathies (e.g., thalassemia major, sickle-cell anemia)
- Severe cardiac disease
- Hypersensitivity to ribavirin or any component of the formulation
- Hepatic decompensation (Child-Pugh score B or C)
Possible side effects
- Hemolytic anemia (dose-related)
- Fatigue, headache, insomnia
- Nausea, anorexia, weight loss
- Pruritus, dry skin, rash
- Depression, irritability, emotional lability
- Dyspnea, cough
- Thyroid dysfunction
- Increased uric acid levels
Drug interaction
- Didanosine: contraindicated due to risk of fatal hepatic failure
- Zidovudine: may potentiate hematological toxicity
- Azathioprine: increased risk of pancytopenia
- Other nucleoside analogues: potential for additive toxicity
- Inform your physician of all prescription, OTC, and herbal products being used
Missed dose
If a dose is missed and it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one. Maintain regular dosing schedule and inform your healthcare provider of any missed doses, as consistent blood levels are important for efficacy.
Overdose
Overdose may exacerbate known adverse effects, particularly hemolytic anemia. There is no specific antidote. Management is supportive, including monitoring of hematological parameters and symptomatic treatment. Hemodialysis removes approximately 50% of ribavirin. In case of suspected overdose, seek immediate medical attention.
Storage
Store at 25°C (77°F); excursions permitted between 15–30°C (59–86°F). Keep in original blister packaging to protect from moisture. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging.
Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis, treatment decisions, and personalized medical guidance. Use strictly as prescribed.
Reviews
“After 48 weeks on Copegus + peginterferon, I achieved SVR24. The side effects were challenging but manageable with supportive care. My viral load is now undetectable.” – Patient, genotype 1b
“Effective in combination therapy for relapsers. Requires vigilant monitoring but offers a solid chance at clearance in appropriate candidates.” – Hepatologist, 15 years experience
“Significant fatigue and anemia were noted, but dose adjustments and erythropoietin support helped complete the course successfully.” – Clinical nurse specialist