interferon alfa-2b + ribavirin

Interferon alfa-2b + ribavirin is a fixed combination therapy used primarily for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Interferon alfa-2b is a recombinant cytokine with antiviral, antiproliferative, and immunomodulatory properties. It induces the expression of interferon-stimulated genes that inhibit various stages of viral replication and modulates immune responses by promoting T-helper cell differentiation toward Th1 phenotype, increasing interleukin (IL)-2 and IFN-gamma production, while inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF and IL-1[9]. Ribavirin is a nucleoside analog prodrug that blocks viral RNA synthesis through multiple mechanisms: direct inhibition of HCV replication, competitive inhibition of inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase (IMPDH), induction of mutagenesis leading to error catastrophe in viral genomes, and immunomodulation favoring Th1 responses[6][9]. The combination has demonstrated superior sustained virologic response rates compared to monotherapy with either agent alone in both initial treatment-naive patients and those who relapsed after prior therapy[1][3]. The combination is contraindicated in pregnancy due to teratogenicity associated with ribavirin[8].

Brand names

Rebetron

Other names

INTRON A + REBETOLinterferon alpha 2b and ribavirininterferon alpha 2b/ribavirin