The impact of interferon on the long-term course of HCV is uncertain. Side effects of interferon can sometimes be worse than the hepatitis symptoms. Twelve months of treatment is considered most successful with interferon therapy. This consists of subcutaneous injections three times a week. Those not responding may benefit from combination therapy with ribavirin.
Ribavirin is a medication that inhibits viral activity.
It is not effective when used alone but is often used in conjunction with interferon.