Rebetol is used for:

Treating hepatitis C infection in certain patients when used in combination with interferon. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.Rebetol is an antiviral medicine. How Rebetol works to treat hepatitis C is not completely understood.

How to use Rebetol:

Use Rebetol as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.

• Rebetol comes with an extra patient information sheet called a Medication Guide. Read it carefully. Read it again each time you get Rebetol refilled.
• Take Rebetol by mouth with food.
• Drinking extra fluids while you are taking Rebetol is recommended. Check with your doctor for instructions.
• Taking Rebetol at the same time each day will help you remember to take it.
• Take Rebetol on a regular schedule to get the most benefit from it.
• Continue to use Rebetol even if you feel well. Do not miss any doses.
• If you miss a dose of Rebetol , take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Rebetol .

Possible side effects of Rebetol:

All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome:

• Cough; diarrhea; dizziness; dry mouth; dry skin; loss of appetite; mild headache, nausea, or vomiting; mild pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site; tiredness; upset stomach; weakness or fatigue.

Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur:

• Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; itching; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); black, tarry stools; changes in hearing, taste, or vision; chest pain; dark urine; decrease in the amount of urine; fever, chills, or sore throat; hair loss; irregular heartbeat; joint pain; muscle pain or weakness; numbness or tingling of arms or legs; prolonged nausea and vomiting; rapid breathing; severe headache; severe stomach or back pain; shortness of breath; sinus problems; thoughts of suicide; trouble sleeping; unusual bruising or bleeding; unusual mental or mood changes; unusual or severe tiredness and fatigue; vomit that looks like coffee grounds; weight loss; yellowing of eyes or skin.

This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur. If you have questions or need medical advice about side effects, contact your doctor or health care provider.

Proper storage of Rebetol:

Store Rebetol at 77 degrees F (25 degrees C). Brief storage at temperatures between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) is permitted. Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Rebetol out of the reach of children and away from pets.