Before taking ribavirin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: blood disorders (such as sickle cell anemia, low hemoglobin, thalassemia), kidney disease, other liver problems (such as autoimmune hepatitis), heart disease, high blood pressure, breathing problems, pancreas problems (such as pancreatitis), diabetes.

This drug may make you dizzy or unusually tired or blur your vision. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy or tired. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness or clear vision until you can do it safely. Avoid alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).

Older adults may be at greater risk for anemia while using this drug.

Ribavirin must not be used during pregnancy. It is recommended that female patients or female partners of male patients take a pregnancy test before this medication is started. Pregnancy tests should continue to be done while using this medication and for some time after this medication is stopped (for 9 months for female patients and for 6 months for female partners of male patients). If you or your partner become pregnant, or if you think you or your partner may be pregnant, tell your doctor right away. See also Warning section.

Since this drug can be absorbed through the skin and lungs and may harm an unborn baby, women who are pregnant or who may become pregnant should not handle this medication or breathe the dust from the tablets.

It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.