Ribavirin is used to treat virus infections.
Interferons are substances naturally produced by cells in the body to help fight infections and tumors. Interferon alfa-2b is used to treat a variety of tumors and viruses including the hepatitis C virus. Ribavirin is available for oral administration. Interferon alfa-2b is available only as an injectable form. In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do.