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. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. It is not known whether ribavirin or interferon alfa-2b passes into breast milk. However, because these medicines may cause serious side effects, breast-feeding may not be recommended while you are receiving them.