Interferon alfa-2b and ribavirin may cause anemia, which is a decrease in the number of red blood cells in the body. This can be dangerous, especially for patients who already have heart or circulatory problems. Your doctor will want to check your red blood cell count before starting and periodically during treatment. Talk to your doctor before taking this medication if you have or have ever had any heart or circulatory problems. Call your doctor or seek emergency medical attention if you develop symptoms of depression or are contemplating suicide; become unusually irritable, anxious (nervous), or aggressive; or experience other mood or behavior changes. In some cases, interferon alfa-2b and ribavirin has caused serious mood or behavioral problems.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Rebetron (interferon alfa-2b and ribavirin)? Do not use interferon alfa-2b and ribavirin without first talking to your doctor if you have had an allergic reaction to ribavirin or an alfa interferon in the past or if you are allergic to E. coli derived products.
Before taking interferon alfa-2b and ribavirin, tell your doctor if you have
blood problems such as anemia, thalassemia, sickle-cell anemia, and others; ;
bone marrow suppression (low red or white blood cells or platelets); ;
high blood pressure, history of a heart attack, or other heart problems; ;
a history of depression, suicidal thoughts, anxiety, drug or alcohol abuse, or another men
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