Question 1

What is Ribavirin used for?

Accepted Answer

Ribavirin is indicated for: Hepatitis, RNA viral infections.

Question 2

What routes can Ribavirin be administered by?

Accepted Answer

Available routes: PO, Inhalation, IV.

Question 3

Which species have cited Ribavirin dosing data?

Accepted Answer

Ribavirin dosing in the ExoticRx formulary covers 2 species: Cat (Domestic), Dog (Domestic).

Question 4

Is Ribavirin a controlled substance?

Accepted Answer

Ribavirin is not federally scheduled as a controlled substance, but is veterinary prescription only in most jurisdictions.

Question 5

What are the warnings or contraindications for Ribavirin?

Accepted Answer

Teratogenic — handle with extreme caution. Hemolytic anemia dose-limiting. Used for hepatitis C, RSV, some hemorrhagic fevers. Limited veterinary use.

Question 6

What are the side effects of Ribavirin?

Accepted Answer

Teratogenic — handle with extreme caution. Hemolytic anemia dose-limiting. Used for hepatitis C, RSV, some hemorrhagic fevers. Limited veterinary use.

Question 7

How does Ribavirin work?

Accepted Answer

Multiple mechanisms: inhibits IMPDH depleting GTP pools, inhibits viral RNA capping, promotes lethal mutagenesis of RNA viruses.

Species	Route	Dose	Frequency	Evidence	Source
Dog (Domestic)	PO	10–15 mg/kg	q12h	Weak	Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 9th Ed
Cat (Domestic)	PO	10–15 mg/kg	q12h	Weak	Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 9th Ed

Ribavirin

Drug Class

Routes

Indications

Mechanism of Action

Side effects & warnings

Species with Ribavirin dosing data (2 dose rules)

Evidence levels across 2 dose rules

Backed by a published primary source

Sample dosing (2 of 2 cited rules)

Upgrade for Full Details