What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using interferon alfa-2b and ribavirin?
You should not use this medication if you are allergic to interferon alfa-2b (Intron A) or ribavirin (Copegus, Rebetol), or if you have: • autoimmune hepatitis; • liver failure; • severe kidney disease; • a hemoglobin blood cell disorder such as sickle-cell anemia or thalassemia; • if you are pregnant or breast-feeding; or • if you are a man and your female sexual partner is pregnant. If you have any of these other conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use interferon alfa-2b and ribavirin: • lung disease; • kidney disease (or if you are on dialysis); • hepatitis B, or liver problems other than hepatitis; • a thyroid disorder; • uncontrolled diabetes; • new or worsening problems with your eyes; • cancer; • HIV or AIDS; • high cholesterol or triglycerides; • heart disease or high blood pressure, history of heart attack, or stroke; • history of organ transplant; • any blood cell disorder causing bleeding episodes, infections, or fever-related illness; • an
