Can children take ribavirin granules?

  Ribavirin granules can be taken by children. Ribavirin granules are indicated for viral pneumonia and bronchitis caused by respiratory syncytial virus, and cutaneous herpes virus infection. Ribavirin is a synthetic nucleoside antiviral drug. In vitro cell culture tests have shown that ribavirin has a selective inhibitory effect on respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The mechanism of action of ribavirin is not known, but the finding that its in vitro antiviral activity can be reversed by guanine and xanthine nucleosides suggests that ribavirin may act as a metabolic analogue of these cells.  For viral respiratory tract infections: adults 0.15g (3 sachets) once, taken 3 times a day for 7 days, children’s dose, based on body weight, 10-15mg/kg daily, divided into 3 doses, applied for 3 days.  For cutaneous herpes virus infection: adults, 0.3g (6 sachets) once, 3-4 times a day for 7 days. For pediatric dosage, the daily dose is calculated as 10-15mg/kg of body weight, divided into 3-4 times, applied for 7 days.  Since ribavirin has a narrow antiviral spectrum and is mainly indicated for limited diseases such as viral pneumonia and bronchitis caused by respiratory syncytial virus infection, it is recommended to strictly select the disease type and reduce its use.  It should be noted that ribavirin should not be used in patients with severe anemia. Ribavirin is not recommended for patients with thalassemia and sickle cell anemia. Ribavirin should not be used in patients with symptoms of pancreatitis or definite pancreatitis. Ribavirin should not be used in patients with a history of heart disease or overt symptoms of heart disease. If any symptoms of worsening heart disease develop with ribavirin, the drug should be discontinued immediately and treated accordingly.