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Ribavirin in acute viral hepatitis.
G H Tilve1, K C Patel, V M Mogre
1Department of Medicine, K. E. M. Hospital, Parel, Bombay, Maharashtra.
Journal of Postgraduate Medicine
|July 1, 1991
Summary
Ribavirin therapy significantly improved symptoms and normalized blood parameters in patients with acute viral hepatitis (excluding hepatitis B). This antiviral medication was well-tolerated, offering a promising treatment option in India.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Virology
- Clinical Pharmacology
Background:
- Acute viral hepatitis (AVH) is a significant public health concern, particularly in India, often characterized by epidemics.
- Currently, effective antiviral treatments for AVH, excluding hepatitis B, are limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of ribavirin in treating acute viral hepatitis (excluding hepatitis B).
Main Methods:
- A double-blind clinical trial involving 64 patients with AVH (excluding hepatitis B).
- Patients were randomly assigned to receive either ribavirin (200 mg four times daily) or a placebo.
- Final analysis included 60 patients due to four lost to follow-up.
Main Results:
- Ribavirin treatment led to rapid and significant improvement in clinical symptoms like nausea and vomiting, alongside appetite restoration.
- Abnormal blood parameters showed a significant and rapid normalization trend in the ribavirin group compared to the placebo group.
- Ribavirin was well-tolerated, with no reported side effects during the trial.
Conclusions:
- Ribavirin demonstrates significant efficacy in managing acute viral hepatitis (excluding hepatitis B), improving both symptomatic and biochemical parameters.
- The favorable safety profile and effectiveness of ribavirin make it a valuable therapeutic option for AVH in regions like India.