Ribavirin, also known as virazole, is a broad-spectrum, potent antiviral drug that belongs to the synthetic nucleoside class and has a significant inhibitory effect on many viruses of DNA and RNA. Its indications are mainly for the prevention and treatment of influenza, parainfluenza, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, measles, mumps, chickenpox, and viral diseases such as herpes simplex, herpes zoster, viral keratitis, herpes stomatitis, pediatric mumps virus pneumonia, and possibly some anti-tumor effects. Its pharmacological action is mainly through the inhibition of viral DNA and RNA synthesis, thus achieving antiviral effects. Other more common adverse reactions include anemia, leukopenia, rash, diarrhea, and gastrointestinal bleeding, as well as elevated serum bilirubin. Ribavirin is mainly used orally, intramuscularly or intravenously, and can also be given as nasal or ophthalmic drops.