Is it okay to take Ribavirin Granules for a fever?

Mar 31, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I felt my forehead and found out I have a fever. I still have some leftover medication. Can I take Ribavirin Granules for the fever?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Ren Yi

Whether or not ribavirin granules can be taken for fever mainly depends on the specific cause of the fever.

Ribavirin granules are an antiviral medication primarily used to treat diseases caused by viral infections, such as influenza A and B, respiratory syncytial virus infection, etc. It exerts inhibitory effects on various viruses by blocking viral nucleic acid synthesis.

If the fever is caused by a viral infection, such as influenza A or B, ribavirin granules may be an appropriate treatment option, as they have antiviral properties that can help rapidly eliminate the virus and thereby alleviate fever symptoms.

If the fever is caused by bacterial infection or other non-viral illnesses, ribavirin granules may not be the optimal treatment option. In such cases, antibiotics or other medications targeting the specific underlying cause may be required.

Therefore, before deciding whether to use ribavirin granules to treat fever, it is recommended to first determine the underlying cause and select the appropriate treatment medication based on a physician's advice and guidance.